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 Tips
Author: Cara 
Date:   2002-09-26 22:15

Hi! I have been playing clarinet for about 3 years but I am in Junior High and my band instructer hasn't exactly helped me inprove my playing. I would appreciate any tips about tone, tonguing or anything like that because I am sure anything would help me improve.

thanks

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 RE: Tips
Author: Tim2 
Date:   2002-09-27 00:00

If you do a search, one of the options at the top of this gray area, enter the words, tonguing or tone or anything elase that you would like to know more about.

There are other links on this board about tips on playing like
<A HREF="http://www.woodwind.org/clarinet/Friedland/index.html">
http://www.woodwind.org/clarinet/Friedland/index.html</A>

and others. Take the time to explore. Well worth it.

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 RE: Tips
Author: diz 
Date:   2002-09-27 00:25

Wow - I didn't realise that it was the band master's responsiblity to work with all instrumentalists in improving their playing!

Mental note: NEVER become a BAND master

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 RE: Tips
Author: Dee 
Date:   2002-09-27 01:24

And what did you think a junior high or high school music TEACHER was supposed to do? Just stand up front and wave a baton??

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 RE: Tips
Author: diz 
Date:   2002-09-27 01:28

Yes - that's precisely what they did when I was in band, then I had a music lesson with my clarinet teacher.

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 RE: Tips
Author: Jim E. 
Date:   2002-09-27 04:51

Band director at the HS my son graduated from in June does the following...

Teaches 5 classes daily (normal load) and one "non-teaching" assignment. He is the only instrumental teacher in the school, school size 1500 students, 55 in marching band, 80+ in the orchestra.

Directs marching band (with part time assistants) (season from early July thru Thanksgiving with approx 20 appearances, two thirds involving travel) AND concert band, string ensemble, orchestra.

Directs and conducts the pit orchestra for the annual musical

Arranges one 3 or 4 day trip a year.

Coordinates with the "Booster" (parents) group.

Orders music and keeps school instruments in repair.

Serves on faculty committees and as the union rep for the school.


(He does receive some extra compensation for the marching band and the musical.)

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 RE: Tips
Author: chuck 
Date:   2002-09-27 05:55

Cara: three years playing clarinet and, unortunately, looking to the Band Director for help. Strongly urge you to get a private teacher. Chuck

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 RE: Tips
Author: Dee 
Date:   2002-09-27 12:14

Just wanted to comment that I am aware of the difference between what band directors do and what should be done. And I am aware of the fact that it very often is not their fault but circumstances that dictate what they do.

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 RE: Tips
Author: William 
Date:   2002-09-27 15:00

Cara--if you do not practice at least one hour a day (weekends included), then that could be one reason for lack of improvement regarding your basic playing skills. Also, even in the best of school music programs, there is no substitue for private instruction from a professional clarinet teacher.

Do a "search" for information on tone, articulation, equipement, etc. and read all you can--but most important of all, PRACTICE. Being "good" isn't something presented to you on a "silver plater" by anyone (even a private teacher), it is earned by YOU. Although I do not know your particular school situation, blaming your director for lack of YOUR progress may not be valid--nor ultimately, productive.

Just some thoughts to add to everyone else's great suggestions and to help provide some perspective for you to consider. Seriously, good luck--something we all need from time to time.

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 RE: Tips
Author: mlb 
Date:   2002-09-27 15:46

The best thing you could do would be to find a private teacher...often schools have a list available to students but you have to ask for it! If you live near a college or university with a music school, students almost always teach lessons. You could also check with local music stores to see if they have teachers that use their facilities or if they at least have a list.

Also, don't be TOO hard on your band director. He/She has many instruments, many kids, and limited time to spot those who are having difficulties (or those who have outgrown the general level of the class).

Your private teacher should be able to clear up whatever problems you have and assist you in advancing to the next level...AS LONG AS YOU PRACTICE what they ask you to!!

Best Wishes!

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 RE: Tips
Author: Cara 
Date:   2002-10-13 01:54

Ooops :( I didn't mean to annoy anyone on about what a band directer is supposed to do and what not... I just meant since it is a giant band idividuals don't get a lot of attention unless your playing horribly. I wasn't implying my teacher is bad or anything he is a really great band directer.

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