30 Things Every Clarinetist Should Do Before 30
By now, faithful readers should know about my love for lists, so I’ve created the clarinetist’s version of 30 before 30.
If you’re looking to create a clarinet-inspired bucket list, here are my suggestions for 30 things every clarinetist should do before 30 (in no particular order):
- Perform a solo recital
- Teach someone else how to play the clarinet
- Attend a clarinet event, conference, or festival
- Have a group of BCF (best clarinet friends)
- Cultivate a signature skill (such as great rhythm, fast articulation, crazy technique, etc)
- Choose “your” piece, which you can perform on a moment’s notice
- Perform in a masterclass
- Perform in a band or orchestra (or both!)
- Develop strong opinions about your favorite orchestral excerpts
- Contact your clarinet idols to tell them how they’ve impacted your musical journey
- Practice occasionally just for fun, not because you have to
- Try a variety of products to find a great setup for yourself
- Find your favorite YouTube channels, blogs, or social media clarinetists to follow
- Watch the livestreaming of an international competition
- Take a lesson with a clarinetist you deeply respect
- Read a book about the clarinet (here are my favorites)
- Discover your favorite method and etude books
- Join an online clarinet forum to connect with people from around the world
- Record yourself regularly
- Have a photo shoot with your clarinet (amateur or professional)
- Replace your swab and sanitize your mouthpiece on the regular
- Try yoga, tai chi, Alexander Technique, Feldenkrais or other program to raise body awareness when you play
- Organize your music collection
- Play duets regularly with friends
- Learn basic clarinet repairs
- Try your favorite auxiliary clarinets
- Volunteer your musical skills to organizations where they’re appreciated
- Step outside your musical comfort zone by playing a different style, song, or technique
- Choose a go-to performer or piece that inspires you
- Keep playing the clarinet for the next 30 years!
What’s on your clarinet 30 before 30 list?
5 Comments
Margaret Marie Coulter
I love this list. I performed a solo recital in April 2018. I already did items 1, 8, 11, and 19 on your list. I plan to perform another solo recital before I turn 32, hopefully before turning 30. I plan to do the first five items and number sixteen. I like number 24 but I’m not sure when I will do it. Number 24 needs some additions like playing trios, quartets, or quintets. Thanks for posting.
jennymaclay
I’m so happy you like the list and you’re checking items off yours! Keep up all the great work!
Anonymous
Thank you!
Dan
What if I’m already 30? ;)
Additions for everyone:
* Learn to diagnose reed problems and adjust reeds.
* Use the money saved using the previous step to throw a party.
I definitely have some additions though…
* Make a reed from a blank.
* Learn how to fix cracks.
* Write a clarinet sonata.
jennymaclay
If you’re already 30 you can add items as necessary ;) And great suggestions for other things to add to the list! Thank you!