Author: Brian P. Butler
Date: 2015-04-02 07:33
Thank you everyone for your words of wisdom and advice. I will check out the Youtube videos provided as additional resources. I'd like to answer a few points that various people have made throughout this discussion. Please know that my tone is not meant to be harsh; I posted this query to have exactly the dialogue that we are having:
1) I am not looking for a quick fix, but rather additional methods of practicing what I believe to be true: you must practice technical passages slowly in order to learn them. My tried and true method begins with slowing the passage down in order to control the notes (finger position, alt. fingerings, etc). I then "rhythm bust" the passage. (My name for a method most of you have probably used in one form or another) Playing each rhythm 5-10x correctly, I play a dotted 8th/16th rhythm, a 16th/dotted 8th rhythm, tripulets (if not all ready the rhythm), and quarter notes in retrograde.
My issue is that I feel as though I have "hit the wall" in regards to playing faster. Your comments, however, have shown me that this is not true. I merely need to push past the frustration/pressure of preparing for this audition.
2) Wisco99 - Thank you for checking out my homepage! I'm taking the audition on clarinet due, in part, due to the structure of the DC AFM, if not all Union locals. The showcase is for classical instruments, with a maximum of 2 instruments per participant. Although I have play clarinet ans saxophone for more than 20 years, the clarinet was my first instrument, and the one that I've had the most classical training on.
3) Lessons are a great and valuable resource; one that I take advantage of whenever possible. Most recently I studied for one semester of graduate school with Garrick Zoeter (Antares Quartet, New Orchestra of Washington, Shenandoah University) and have had occasional lessons with David Jones (Kennedy Center Opera House Orchestra).
4) Word of mouth is great, if people know you exist. I am attempting to transition from non-Union to Union circles; the people who I've played with have not been members of the Union. Although I have spent years cultivating a reputation in the community theater level of show work, I need to create crossover by auditioning for a room full of contractors on a more professional level. It is possible, but not likely, that work will come directly from this endeavor. However, getting my resume, face, and sound - if only on one instrument - in the hands of people who can hire or make suggestions to those who do is a step toward no longer being anonymous.
Thanks again. I look forward to continuing the dialogue on this, and other, topics.
Butler Musical Services
Performance. Education. Dedication.
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The Clarinet BBoard
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