The Clarinet and Clarinet Playing

The father of one of my friends tried to get me to read this book when I was playing clarinet in middle school over a dozen years ago. Well, I finally got around to it and very much regret putting it off for so long. There is a ton of practical knowledge completely spelled out for the aspiring clarinetist. No matter you skill level, you should enjoy the read; of course, this won't really interest you if you don't play clarinet (or soprano sax). Style: The book is written with everything clearly spelled out with examples and reasons why things are done a certain way. Even a beginner could get through the book without much trouble. There is a lot of color as to the history of the clarinet and the author's own experiences. Gladly, it does not read like a textbook, nor does it approach the wordiness or length of one. Content: I would give this book 6 stars just for the amount of valuable knowledge. I have changed the ligature I use to much success and am (hopefully) correcting some bad habits concerning practice and maintenance. I'm also looking forward to putting the reed making/honing lessons to use. Overall, it's just great to be much more informed about something I've invested a big chunk of my life in. Like some other reviewers said, there are other clashing schools of thought, but read and decide what's best for you. Overall: Considering the cost of lessons and the amount of time required to master the clarinet, this is a very intelligent investment of both time and money. You absolutely won't regret it, unless you put it off, like I did.

I was an All-State clarinetist in high school and the majority of my college tuition was paid for by the music department for my clarinet skills. I thought I knew a lot about the instrument before reading this book. I was WRONG. Very WRONG.This book would have saved me so much aggravation and practice time as a teenager! Things that I struggled with (such as performance anxiety before auditioning) became trivial. The history of the instrument is laid out in an interesting manner and it is chock full of tips on how to care for your horn and become a better player. I only wish I had bought a copy sooner!

This book goes through all of the little details of clarinet playing that many instructors never mention. It really tries to teach you to become a complete clarinet player. You learn not only about the technical aspects of playing the clarinet, but also about the equipment (including reed making), the music written for the clarinet, the history of the clarinet, and just general musicianship. All of this in a well written book. Great for all people who want to learn more about the clarinet.

This book is a wonderful Clarinet-Case-Companion to tote around, just so that you may always refer to it. Loaded with performance tips, relaxation techniqes, history, and pedagogy of the instrument, Pino's "The Clarinet and Clarinet Playing" is an essential item which every Clarinetist should take a look at! :)

This is the most recent and in some ways the best book of its type ever written. It covers clarinet playing, history, music, reeds, mouthpieces, teaching philosophy, practice philosophy and a number of other topics. It is a genuine classic and a must have book for every clarinetist and anyone who wishes to know more about the clarinet. The print quality is excellent and the book is a steal at Dover's low price. Highest recommendation.