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Learning Clarinet in the Mid-70s

Have you ever wondered what it was like to learn an instrument in the past? Let’s take a journey back to the mid-70s and discover how clarinet lessons were back then. This story might make you think about your own music learning experiences.

My Two Teachers Back in the Mid-70s

Learning the clarinet in the mid-70s was a unique experience, shaped by the dedicated guidance of my two teachers back in the mid-70s. These teachers were more than just instructors; they were mentors who instilled a deep love for music in their students. The first teacher, Mr. Thompson, was a seasoned performer with a background in classical music. His approach was structured and disciplined, focusing heavily on technique and precision. His strict lessons were sometimes hard, but they helped me get really good at playing the clarinet.

In contrast, Mrs. Garcia, my second teacher, brought an entirely different energy to her lessons. She had a vibrant personality and a rich background in jazz, which she infused into her teaching. Mrs. Garcia encouraged creativity and expression, often allowing us to explore improvisation. Her lessons were filled with stories of jazz legends, and she inspired us to find our unique voice through music. Have you ever had a teacher who changed the way you see music?

One memorable anecdote from my two teachers back in the mid-70s involves a small concert we organized in the school gym. Mr. Thompson insisted we play a challenging classical piece, while Mrs. Garcia suggested adding a jazz number to the program. The combination of styles not only delighted the audience but also taught us the importance of versatility in music. These experiences with clarinet teachers mid-70s shaped my musical journey, providing a comprehensive education that blended technical prowess with expressive freedom. Their contrasting methods and shared passion for music left a lasting imprint, guiding me through my musical endeavors with confidence and creativity.

The Tutor Book I Have from Back Then

Learning the clarinet in the mid-70s wasn’t just about the teachers; it was also about the resources we used, like the tutor book I have from back then. This book was a staple in my lessons, guiding me through the basics and helping me build a strong foundation. It was filled with exercises, scales, and pieces that seemed challenging at the time but were essential for developing my skills.

The tutor book had a very structured format, starting with simple notes and progressively introducing more complex pieces. It emphasized proper finger positioning and breathing techniques, which were crucial for any budding clarinetist. The book helped me learn because it showed me the hard things in easy steps. Do you use apps or books to learn music? How do they help you?

When I compare the tutor book I have from back then to modern educational resources, I notice a significant evolution. Today, clarinet learners have access to interactive apps, online tutorials, and a plethora of digital resources that cater to various learning styles. While the old tutor book was invaluable during my time, today’s resources offer more flexibility and engagement. The combination of technology and music education has opened up new ways to learn, making the process more interactive and enjoyable for students.

Despite these advancements, there’s a certain nostalgia in remembering the simplicity of the tutor book I have from back then. It might not have the bells and whistles of today’s resources, but it played a crucial role in my clarinet journey. The dedication and discipline it required taught me the value of persistence, a lesson that remains relevant for musicians today.

Technique: Touching the Reed with Your Tongue

Back in the mid-70s, clarinet teachers mid-70s often taught a technique that involved touching the reed with your tongue. This technique was believed to help players articulate notes more clearly and achieve a crisp sound. Looking online, it seems that actually touching the reed with your tongue was a common practice, and many educators believed it was essential for developing good articulation skills. It was considered acceptable but is now deprecated due to a deeper understanding of clarinet playing and advances in teaching methods.

Today, we know it’s better not to touch the reed because it helps the clarinet sound better. Modern techniques emphasize the use of the tongue in a more controlled manner, often referred to as “tonguing” or “staccato” without direct contact with the reed. This shift aims to maintain the natural vibration of the reed while still achieving clear articulation. Try experimenting with new ways to use your tongue and see how it changes your sound.

Reflecting on this change, it’s fascinating to see how clarinet education has progressed since the time of clarinet teachers mid-70s. While the old method had its merits, the new approaches offer improved sound quality and ease of playing. As musicians continue to learn and adapt, these advancements in technique ensure that players can express themselves more freely and effectively.

Conclusion

Learning the clarinet has changed a lot since the 70s. What do you think about these changes? Share your thoughts with us! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, there’s always something new to learn and explore in the world of music.