Instead of video games and socks, why not fill your budding clarinettist’s stocking with something musical? The following is a list of products that I recommend to all students, and all are available at most local retailers.
A practical and portable stand that keeps the clarinet safe!
The clarinet is a delicate instrument, and improper care can lead to expensive repair bills (Not to mention lost practice time!).
The K&M Clarinet stand is light, durable, and portable, with its unique design allowing for storage inside the clarinet’s bell when not in use.
I started using K&M stands after a disaster in junior high school that resulted in my clarinet breaking in half. Needless to say, I didn’t get much playing in for the rest of the week, and the school wasn’t pleased.
Get up to a year’s worth of playing out of a single reed!
Legére Reeds are made of a synthetic material that emulates the physical properties of cane reed. They don’t sound quite as dark as “real” reeds, but they never require moistening, play consistently, last up to a year, are easily cleaned, and offer enhanced durability. As an added bonus, they are manufactured and designed right here in Canada.
For me, Legére reeds are indispensable. I use them when teaching so I don’t have to worry about keeping the reed moist, and trust their reliability and performance in emergency playing situations.
Keep in mind that these reeds play about a quarter-strength soft when compared to most cane reeds, meaning that if you normally play on a 3, you should buy a 3 1/4.
The clarinet ligature isn’t just a piece of metal.
Though seemingly simple, the ligature (which holds the reed onto the clarinet) plays a huge role in sound production.
The Bonade ligature’s innovative design minimizes contact with the reed, which allows it to resonate more freely. It makes a great introduction into the world of ligatures, and is used by professionals (including myself) all over the world.
I recommend the inverted style, and the purchase of a mouthpiece cap, which is available for an additional $20.
A great mouthpiece is the key to sound production.
Having a good mouthpiece is key to getting good sound from the clarinet. The Clark Fobes “Debut” mouthpiece would make a great choice for beginner students, whereas a Vandoren B45 would be recommended for those who are advancing. The latter is a tried and true product that has been recommended by teachers for decades.
I know that the price seems steep, but if properly maintained a good mouthpiece will last for many years. Compared to the expendable nature of most products nowadays, like video games and iPods, which that are only good until the next best thing comes along, a new mouthpiece is an extremely worthwhile investment.
Mouthpieces are a very personal choice and the student may want try several before deciding. It may also be worth considering the Vandoren M13, which is a professional mouthpiece that delivers a more refined, orchestral sound.
If you choose to invest in a good mouthpiece, you should also consider a pack of mouthpiece pads to protect it from getting damaged by teeth!
Some things cost money, but are priceless. This is one of those things.
If you purchase only one item from this list, make sure it’s this one. Playing in tune and having a great sense of timing is, arguably, the most important aspect of playing any musical instrument. Notes can always be learned, but without proper intonation and timing, you’re lost.
Thus, the tuner and metronome concludes our list as the number one gift for the budding clarinettist in your life. No product will have a greater return on investment this holiday season. Guaranteed!
The Korg model featured here (TM-40) is a two-in-one unit metronome and tuner, but these items can be purchased separately for around $20 each.
Happy holidays!
Sean.
After an extended posting hiatus, I am back for the new year with some old news (Though it’s brand new to me!). A team from UNSW has designed a fully-robotic clarinet. The instrument is fascinating to watch and displays an impressive technical ability, though its tone leaves something to be desired (even to Squidward’s ear).
