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Recommended Reading
Reine Wehle, a most highly regarded orchestral clarinettist throughout Germany and professor at the Musikhochschule Lubeck, has created a set of three practical and comprehensive study books concerning all aspects of clarinet playing.
I particularly recommend these volumes as they really do read directly from teacher to student with clear, concise, absolutely no-nonsense text, enabling a real flow to understanding and progress.
Volume one covers tone production, embouchure and articulation. There is some extremely valuable advice regarding reed care and adjustment. This book is packed full of text, supporting effective and progressive exercises.
Volume two, regarding finger technique, avoids being wordy, concentrating purely on studies designed to build a solid foundation, with supporting extracts from the solo and orchestral repertoire giving each exercise a clear, recognisable purpose.
Volume three is concerned with intonation, discussing breath control, supportive playing and embouchure .
In my opinion, volume one is pitched towards a student of intermediate standard (grade 5/6) were it is hoped there is a solid foundation of understanding and technique. The following volumes are perhaps appropriate for students of grades 7/8 and beyond. Collectively they are surely a valuable source for all college students and teachers.
