About the Instrument:
Although the original meaning of the word Clarinet is from Italian meaning “little Trumpet”, the Clarinet has established itself with its beautiful, rich, wood sound. Mozart is generally credited with being the first major composer to use Clarinet in his compositions. The swing era of the 1940’s saw perhaps the largest use of the Clarinet, with stars such as Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw ruling the pop charts of the time. While not in use as much in pop music, there’s no arguing the Clarinet’s prominence in the Orchestra, as well as it’s continued popularity in many styles of folk music, such as Klezmer and Polka. If you’re looking for an instrument with a beautiful rich tone, the Clarinet is the one for you.
Purchase Price: $150.00-$8,000.00
Rental Price: $18.00-25.00 per month
How Loud Is It?: 80 dbl.
Difficulty Level: 7
Can the Sound be Muted?: No
Weight: 1.5 lbs., about 6 lbs. in case
Additional costs, What else you’ll need: Repair leaking pads.
Reeds - Cut pieces of bamboo that attach to the Mouthpiece which vibrate to create sound. Come in many strengths and different brands.
Mouthpiece - Attached to the top of the Clarinet, a variety to choose from.
Ligature - Holds the reed onto the mouthpiece.
Clarinet stand, cork grease, swab to clean out the Clarinet.
Scholarship Opportunities: Yes
Performing Opportunities: Orchestra, Chamber Ensembles, Jazz Groups, Dixieland Bands, Concert Band, Polka Music, Klezmer Groups.
Related Instruments: Alto Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Saxophones.
Pros: Rich, woody sound. Light instrument, easy to carry around. Lays a solid foundation for learning saxophone.
Cons: Getting all fingers to cover the tone holes takes time to get used to. In the meantime, squeaks will occur. Reeds can always be a challenge, and in the beginning can contribute to the squeaking.
Why play the Clarinet? Click on the movie below.
