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Recommended Reading
'Clarinet & Saxophone' is the title of the professional publication of the Clarinet & Saxophone Society of Great Britain. It is published four times each year, edited by Richard Edwards. The Society chairman is David Campbell, whose 'Notes from the Chair' always provides a wide ranging & enthusiastic 'overview' of things happening in the Clarinet world.
I encourage all ages of student to read my back copies of this excellent publication, for many reasons.
Primarily, it is an instant insight into the multifarious facets of the world of the single reed instruments. It is a bright, vibrant magazine, inviting one into its glossy pages, to eagerly devour all on offer, right from the front cover. For instance, the edition of tributes to the recently, late & great Sir John Dankworth was fronted by a cover showing John as a mature player, still 'hitting the spot' with his Sax. Not only is the cover always beautiful, the magazine is full of beautiful photographs adding to the articles on various professional players; the huge amount of information on upcoming Workshops, Playdays, Symposia, Congresses, Conferences and so on.
Also, I hope by savouring some of the enthusiasm within its pages, my students will feel inspired to join some groups (the 'Where can I play?' page), go on workshops, attend some of the performances when in their area & generally have their horizons and own aspirations widened by a sense of belonging to a huge family of similarly minded musicians of all ages & abilities.
The Concert reviews are great to read if one had seen in the previous issue, a concert one really wanted to attend but may not have been able to. Equally, the book reviews are very useful , whether a teacher or not, and the CD reviews too. I find the accessory review interesting as I never have time for keeping abreast of the latest mouthpiece, ligature or reed, so a professional critique is great. The Music Review is much appreciated. As a busy teacher, sourcing the broadest repertoire for so many diverse tastes, ages & abilities I am always grateful for two whole pages of new editions, new compositions etc. 'Your Questions Answered' pages are always interesting to teacher & student alike.
Finally, there is the centrepiece, literally, in the middle of the magazine, a new piece, study or duet, waiting to be played...like a tempting gift, snuggling between so many well written, lively & humorous articles, all waiting to be read...& again.
Not only do I hope my students will enjoy the sense of inclusion this publication brings, but they might also be inspired to join The Clarinet & Saxophone Society (CASS). It was formed in 1976 for everyone who has an interest in the clarinet or saxophone and their repertoire; teachers, students, professionals, amateurs, manufacturers, composers & has members in over thirty five countries. Janet Hilton is the President, with Richard Ingham. Membership benefits include access to the extensive library of music, to borrow, some discounts for events, free advertising of instruments for sale etc.
My saxophone playing nephews certainly enjoy their Junior Membership (a good present) and often log on to the Forums.
There is no doubt for me that the sometimes rather isolated business of practising & progressing skills on a musical instrument, is greatly enhanced by being part of the bigger picture, the fraternity (or sorority) that belonging to a professional Society brings, as we are after all, all students...all learning, all seeking....more.
