Repertoire for the Beginner Clarinetist

by Lamorna and James Nightingale

This stylistically diverse collection of over 90 solos, folk songs and duets are suitable for the AMEB grade 1 - 2 clarinetist. 

The range of the pieces has been chosen to provide experience for clarinetists in crossing the break in the keys of F, C, and G, and to allow the young clarinetist to consolidate their tone in the upper register before advancing above the stave. 

Founded upon traditional repertoire, duets and studies, Repertoire for the Beginner  Clarinetist gives students a solid foundation in style. It particularly encourages the development of good breath control, tone and musicality through cantabile style melodies tailored to the abilities of players in the first year or so of playing. 

The carefully selected pieces reinforce basic rhythmic knowledge and introduce more complex concepts such as simple syncopation and semiquavers in logical and intuitive steps. 

Suggestions for creative music making are included to introduce simple improvisation, creative structural innovation, and encourage the exploration of diverse ensemble combinations.  

Alongside traditional repertoire, an engaging set of folk songs from around the world (Africa, China, Taiwan, Japan, Italy, Hawaii, America, Israel and Australia) with original accompaniments by Sally Whitwell, provide diversity and spontaneity to the collection. Repertoire for the Beginner Saxophonist concludes with a collection of festive duets including Christmas Carols, Hanuka Songs and the Australian National Anthem!