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Re: Why start low?

Author: Tom H
Date: 2022-12-09 06:48

As a former band director who taught beginners for years, I can say it's probably done that way in schools because it's the fastest way for kids to find success. As well, those usual first 6 notes taught (EFG,DC & up to A usually in that order) fit best with what the rest of the class is learning (assuming it is a "class" set up and not "pullout" individual or small group lessons). There is also that some kids have small fingers and have problems covering the RH notes regardless of which register.

Having said that about Band, I can see nothing wrong with learning the chalumeau register first and never thought of it as ignoring the clarion. I think going over the break is usually a problem and would be even if the clarion were learned first. You'd still have to jump smoothly from throat A/Bb to clarion B/C.
Some teachers prefer to start with the low notes then go to G above the staff and work down finger by finger to C and B. I didn't learn or teach that way, but some swear by it. I too can't recall exactly how I learned the clarion, but know that I learned the low notes first. I figure it worked out for me.

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Post Edited (2022-12-09 06:50)

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Why start low? new

Matt74

2022-12-09 05:47