Beginning Class Clarinet - MUS 107

 

OBJECTIVE

This course is designed to provide the student with a good working knowledge of the basic fundamentals of playing and teaching the instrument. This course is not recommended for the student who has already played the instrument reasonably well. In that case, it would be to your advantage to test out of the course.

 

COURSE REQUIREMENTS

1. Demonstrate the ability to produce a clear tone with good control.

            2. Master the basic set of fingerings prescribed in the class work and take home assignments.

           3. Have a fundamental knowledge of the basic teaching techniques for beginning students.

           4. Perform the various exercises and etudes taken from the class text used in class.

           5.To be able to describe - verbally and in written form - the following:

                    a) How to form embouchure.

                    b) Correct hand position on the instrument

                    c) To demonstrate correct basic fingerings with alternates where applicable.

           6. To be able to discuss basic pedagogical approaches to the clarinet based on class lectures and demonstrations.

           7. To keep a notebook containing class notes of each lecture and demonstration given by the instructor. I will periodically inspect its contents for neatness and accuracy.

 

MATERIALS

1. An approved clarinet mouthpiece. The one used is the “Debut” made by Clark Fobes.

            2. Hendrickson Clarinet Method - Book I

3. Bb clarinet reeds called GRAND CONCERT made by Rico. Buy 2 #2 ½ and 3 # 3’s, OR Vandoren clarinet reeds, #2 ½ and # 3’s.

                 Note:  These materials are obtainable from “Cordas Music Wharehouse”  on Jane Street.

              4. For supplementary and assigned reading, visit the Clarinet Compendium on my website.

   EXAMS

1. Week to week recitation during class time for which a grade is assigned.10%

            2. A performance portion consisting of:

                   a) scales: C F G Bb Eb A E Ab and CHROMATIC SCALE

                   b) Excerpts taken from the Hendrickson Clarinet Method. 70%

                   c) A written portion based on lectures presented during the semester. 20%

 

NOTE

Movement through the assigned work is quite rapid and complex. New fingering patterns are sometimes difficult to understand, therefore the presentation and practice of them during class time, is imperative. Absence from as few as 2 classes can place your success in this course in jeopardy. THERE ARE NO CUTS IN THIS COURSE.

 

 

Roger W. McKinney
Professor of Clarinet and Music History
Department of Music
The College of New Jersey
Ewing, NJ 08628-0718
Phone: (609) 771-2762
Website: www.tcnj.edu/~mckinney
e-mail: mckinney@tcnj.edu


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