 The Clarinet BBoard
|
Author: rabbit09876
Date: 2006-01-03 19:50
Hello all! I used to be very active with playing and even received my degree in music ed. in 02. Since then, however, I have pretty much gotten out of playing (very long story), but have recently had a wonderful opportunity for me to get back into music, and even teach. Long story short, I brought the old Buffet out the other day, and man, I am not what I used to be (but better than I thought though, thankfully). I have played for about 18 years if you count the last 4, and have missed it horribly. If anyone has advice on how to get back into the swing of things, and put myself through a fast-paced track, please let me know. I appreciate it!
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: ron b
Date: 2006-01-03 20:30
Here's offering you one fellow's (also a returnee) opinion and a hearty...
*** = Welcome Back, Rabbit!!! = ***
It's wonderful to me that you've decided to take up the horn again. I'd like to offer also a word of caution(?); I don't believe any responsible teacher would put you on a fast-paced track. A comfortable, moderate-paced buildup of your embouchure (long tones and frequent rest periods) and finger exercises would be more appropriate. If you attempt to force yourself you risk muscle strain which may actually hinder you your getting back in shape. That could be discouraging, at the least -- and require additional recovery at the worst).
I understand your enthusiasm, even envy it a little bit, Rabbit, but would recommend that you ease back into the swing of things rather than [risk] making a distasteful chore out of it. Not that you will, of course, I don't know you. But, please be aware that the element of overdoing is there.
Now, for the *good news*... your skill will return and, possibly much sooner than you anticipate.
Above all, "have fun  " !
- ron b -
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Bassie
Date: 2006-01-04 12:00
I've taken two long-ish breaks from playing, and each time it's (eventually) come back better than before. Hang in there! My recommendation is to ... well ... play stuff. The key is that you know already that you don't sound as good as you'd like, so you've got a direction to go in. I found it very refreshing to just go and browse a sheet music store and pick up some new pieces to play just for the fun of it.
Trying to remember how to play is probably an excellent foundation for being a teacher. If you have to rediscover those old skills with conscious effort, you'll be able to pass them on more easily.
Bear in mind also that your ear's probably got more critical during the downtime. Players get into habits of technique that are hard to notice without a serious upset to their routine. This restart is an opportunity to do things better.
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
Author: Mike Clarinet
Date: 2006-01-04 13:05
Join a no-audition community band. This will also give a purpose to your playing. Be prepared to sit on a low stand for a while while your technique and endurance returns. Also get some lessons. This need not be for a long period of time or every week, but until you get back to the standard you want to be at. It may be that someone in a band will be or know of a teacher and will be able to help you. Take Ron's advice about excercises, adding scales and arpeggios. Try pieces that you have enjoyed playing in the past - not too taxing to start with but building up as your skills return. Have fun!
|
|
Reply To Message
|
|
The Clarinet Pages
|
 |
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
