Author: Jack Kissinger
Date: 2002-07-29 18:05
In addition to many of the the above suggestions, I would recommend you contact the orchestra and find out what is required to be put on the sub/extra list. It is probably an audition and they may do it on an ad hoc basis or they may hold sub/extra auditions at a set time each year. You will probably have to know a concerto (perhaps Mozart) and some orchestral excerpts, which they should be happy to identify for you.
It sounds to me as though you are not quite ready yet, even for that level, but knowing their expectations is useful while you prepare and it will give you a specific goal. If you are on the list by the time a permanent opening comes up, you may also have an inside track. Also try to find out the background of their current clarinetists. That will give you some idea of the level you have to reach. In fact, you might consider lessons with one of them. In addition to fine tuning your playing ability, they both understand the skills necessary to perform in their orchestra, probably have good contacts and might put you in line for some other playing experiences. As others have noted, you will eventually need an A clarinet but I wouldn't rush out to buy one just yet. I think finding a good teacher should come first. Also, you haven't mentioned what kind of Bb clarinet you currently have. If it isn't a pro-level instrument, you will likely have to get one of those, too.
Community band playing can help develop your skills by requiring you to prepare large quantities of sometimes difficult music in a short period of time. In my experience, however, while good band playing requires the same skills and attitude as good orchestral playing, the experiences are rather different. Also, unless you have a very good band director who insists on care to such detail as intonation, dynamics, blend and articulation, there is a danger of falling into the "faster, louder, higher" mold that defines too many of the band-only players I have encountered.
While I really hate to put myself into a position of disagreeing with David Dow, in your situation, before I joined the union, I would find out whether union membership will place any significant restriction on your amateur playing. (It may not but rules tend to vary from one local to another.) At your apparent level, amateur opportunities are still very important to your development. You likely will have to belong to the union to play in the orchestra (but you should also contact the orchestra to verify this). However, if you are studying with one of the clarinetists (and have a friend who is an insider with the orchestra's management), you should be able to find out if an opening occurs.
One final comment. Don't be overwhelmed by the potential competition. Considering that this is a part-time orchestra with very limited services, your competition will probably be local musicians and music teachers. Some of them may be quite good but you won't likely face the competition you would for the Houston Symphony. In fact, some of the best players in the area may be too busy to bother. If you prepare yourself thoroughly, you will have a better chance than you might imagine.
Best regards,
jnk
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