Learn the Basics: Clarinet for the total beginner
๐ถThis class is designed specifically for students brand new to the clarinet. The course covers the essential basics of learning the clarinet so that your child can be ready to join school band or play their first solo with confidence. โจ
Rachel Hardman
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:(37)
What's included
4 live meetings
2 in-class hoursHomework
1-2 hours per week. Students should use time outside of the lesson to work on the skills taught so that they can play simple pieces, assemble the clarinet and master the basics of making a sound and tonguing.Progress Report
includedClass Experience
US Grade 5 - 8
Beginner Level
This course is specifically designed for the total beginner to the clarinet. During the 4 session course, students will learn all the essential skills needed to join school band or play their first solo with confidence. We will cover the basics of assembling the clarinet and using the instrument correctly. We will cover how to assemble the reed onto the mouthpiece and how to make a great sound. We will cover the notes of the lower register that all clarinet and band students learn in the first year of band classes. We will learn how the notes are drawn on the stave, how this relates to the instrument and then play some simple pieces that allows the student to master these basic skills. Lessons will be fun and fast paced with an expectation that students do personal practice outside of the classroom to experiment and master the skills taught in class. The lessons will be practical and the goal is for students to play the instruments for the majority of the lesson time. Notes and work booklets will be provided. Students must have access to a Bb clarinet and have good reeds prior to enrolling for the class. I am happy to give parents guidance on what instruments and reeds to buy if needed. You will need to ensure that the audio is set to "Audio for Musicians on" in the audio settings of zoom for each class for the best audio for class.
Learning Goals
Learn to assemble the clarinet and accuracy placement of the reed. Make a good sound and learn how to tongue correctly.Learn the basic 5 notes of the clarinet and be able to play simple melodies using these notes.
Syllabus
4 Lessons
over 4 WeeksLesson 1:
Introduction to the Clarinet
How to assemble the clarinet safely.
Good practice and care for your instrument.
How to hold the instrument, add the reed and make your first sound! Learn your first few notes! 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Making a sound and first notes
How to hold the clarinet correctly and the importance of the reed.
Good finger / hand placement for the left hand.
Learning how to play the first 3 notes on the clarinet - E, D and C. Learning to play simple pieces using those notes. 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
How to use the reed correctly for making a good sound
Learning to tongue the notes correctly.
Learning F and G.
Reading notes and playing simple music. 30 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Why does the clarinet squeak and other useful tips for the clarinet
Playing songs with the first 5 notes on the clarinet.
How to read beat values and notes.
Learning low B, A and G.
Good finger / hand placement for the right hand.
Learning Bb and A so the essential notes for first year school band are already covered.
Review music covered during the course. 30 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Pre-Requisites
Students must have access to a clarinet at home for the classes and to practice on. They should also have suitable reeds - ideally 2.0 or 2.5 Vandoren or Rico reeds to make a great sound.
Supply List
Bb clarinet 2.0 or 2.5 Bb clarinet reeds. Recommend Vandoren or rico brands. Good audio settings on zoom.
Language of Instruction
English
Joined February, 2023
5.0
37reviews
Teacher expertise and credentials
Non-US Teaching Certificate in Music/Theater/Arts
2 Degrees
Master's Degree in Education from Open University, UK
Bachelor's Degree in Music or Theatre or Arts from University of Salford, UK
I have 25 years of teaching middle and high school classroom music and band teaching. I have taught in the UK, Bermuda, Switzerland and the USA. I have a degree in music and a masters in education. I have run many successful school bands and helped hundreds of young musicians start their musical careers.Reviews
Live Group Course
$20
weekly or $80 for 4 classes1x per week, 4 weeks
30 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 10-14
2-9 learners per class
