CLARINET FAMILY
On this page, you will find resources such as embouchure guides, instrument purchasing guides, fingering charts, and more!
An overview...
RESOURCES/ARTICLES:
- A short, concise document from Midwest Music Imports about the clarinet
- Helpful document for those starting out on clarinet, discusses reeds and more
"The Ultimate Guide to the Clarinet"
- A bit more extensive, delves into more history and materials
​
​
​
​
Embouchure
Embouchure on the clarinet is the most "still" of embouchures. The muscles in your embouchure should be strong to support your sound, and developing those muscles will take time, so be patient with yourself!
Some tips for the correct embouchure:
- think about sucking a milkshake through a straw
- think about forming a V with your chin as the point
- air is just as important as embouchure, so make sure you engage your diaphragm and support the air going into your instrument
RESOURCES/ARTICLES:
- Brief overview of how to form a good clarinet embouchure
"How to Develop the Proper Clarinet Embouchure"
- more in-depth, helpful diagrams, common mistakes
"Clarinet Embouchure: A Beginner's Guide"
- walks through each part of the embouchure
"Clarinet Embouchure: How I Teach It"
- helpful photos and approach
Articulation
RESOURCES/ARTICLES:
- overview and helpful exercises
"Clarinet Articulation" (Vandoren)
- very extensive, exercises and strategies
Equipment
RESOURCES/ARTICLES:
- brief overview of instruments, mouthpieces, reeds, resources
"Equipment List for Beginner Clarinets"
- very general, but helpful checklist
"Clarinet Advice for Beginners"
- first part especially helpful for what to look for