Advantages of Studies

When preparing a piece of music, be it for performance or examination, it is good practice to support it with relevant studies. This can be done at any level. I find it very helpful to a student to first play the scale and arpeggio of the key that the piece of music is written. This supports any technical issues that may arise during piece. As a teacher I also try to source relevant studies again in the same key, since this helps to strengthen technique and produces a stronger, more convincing musical performance.

There are many study books on the market  but if I had to choose just one, it would have to be the H. Klose, "Methode Complete de Clarinette". This study book encompasses modern techniques, considerably augmented by exercises concentrating on: articulation, scales, arpeggios, expression and mechanism. It starts at the very basics and finishes with advanced playing techniques including duets that will test any student or teacher.