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Page updated by Mindy Byerts on May 3, 2011
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Recommended Accessories
Claricord Clarinet Neck Strap - A neck strap is a good accessory especially for younger students. Because the clarinet can be a "heavy" instrument, the neck strap will take off some pressure from their right hand thumb which holds the clarinet at the thumb joint.
La Vaz/Rico Reed Guard - This reed case is much better than the cases that the reeds come in because your reed will be stored on a flat surface. The reed will start to warp when stored in the original case after being wet from playing.
Silk Clarinet Swab - The reason I like the silk swab is because it is less likely to get stuck in the clarinet. Some of the cotton swabs are hard to get through the clarinet and there are some swabs that are just too small.
Vandoren Reeds - students should start on size 2-1/2. I choose the Vandoren reeds because they are widely played and have proven good to me over the years.
Rovner Dark Clarinet Ligature - I suggest a Dark Rovner because I feel it gives more freedom when blowing into the instrument.
Metronome - The picture posted here is just one metronome that is good. What to look for in a metronome is that you can hear it. Yes it is surprising I say that but you need to make sure that it sends out a good loud click so you can hear it over your playing. It is also good to have a light flashing to reiterate the tempo.
Reed Rush - Reed Rush is a natural growing grass that is a good alternative to knives and sandpapers to make adjustments on reeds. Each reed in your box will be a little different so you might need to adjust the reed to be softer
The listed books are not only recommended but I use these with each student in one way or another.
Spiral-bound notebook - It is good to have a notebook set aside for clarinet only that I may write in each week. Each lesson I will write what you need to practice during the week and helpful tips.
Note Speller by Fred Weber - I like Note Speller because it is a book of work sheets that will help the student remember fingerings, notes, and rhythm outside of playing.
My First Klose - This book is used primarily for our finger studies, which are exercises that will help get our fingers moving fast. The book as well will help with articulation, scales, rhythm, and chromatic studies.
Rubank Elementary Method - this will be the very first book we will use to start learning the clarinet. Rubank method's are very widely used. It works on all aspects of learning to become a musician. There are a total of 4 levels. In lessons we will use the Elementary Method book but once you start doing either all-county or all-state auditions you will need the Advance Method Vol I & II.
Here are three different levels of clarinets I recommend. Although I recommend any Buffet Clarinet as long as it feels and sounds good to you. Check out how Buffet Crampon Clarinet's are made here: http://e11france.com/us/index.php?Itemid=15.
Buffet B12 Clarinet - The B12 is a great model to start off with as a beginner. They are made from ABS resin which is a type of plastic but has the appearance and sound similar to the grenadilla wood from which wooden clarinets are made. This clarinet is also good for marching band.
Buffet E11 France Clarinet - the E11 France is the top of the line Intermediate clarinet. It is made from African Blackwood so therefore it should not be used for marching band. The E11 France is a brand new model for the Buffet line.
Buffet R13 Clarinet - the R13 is the most popular professional clarinet. It is made from Grenadilla Wood. This one as well is not for marching band. I feel it has the best tone and it is the best made overall.
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