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10 Lists to Get You Organized and Inspired for the New Decade
Happy New Year! There has always been something magical about the feeling of new years and new beginnings – a chance for newly invigorated ideas and goals. It should come as no surprise to longtime readers of Jenny Clarinet that I’m a huge fan of lists, so I thought I’d share a few of my favourite lists to get you…
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How to Maintain Your Practice Schedule During the Holidays
There’s no doubt about it, December is a hectic time of year. Combine the holidays with the general end of year craziness, and it can wreak havoc on your practice schedule. This is especially dangerous for musicians, as many college and festival auditions are at the beginning of the year. While it might feel nice now to take some time…
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Stocking Stuffer Gift Ideas for Clarinetists
Looking for stocking stuffer ideas for the clarinetist in your life this holiday season? Here are a few ideas for some inexpensive gifts any clarinetist will surely appreciate: Reeds Cork grease Lip balm (not to be confused with cork grease!) A new swab Mouthpiece Ligature Mouthpiece pouch Mouthpiece patches Thumb cushion Reed case Small toiletry case (to corral all these…
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How Musicians Can Avoid Becoming A Grinch This Holiday Season
December is a busy time of year, but it’s especially hectic if you are a musician. It’s easy to become a bit Grinch-like if you’re running from gig to gig, consisting of caffeine and adrenaline, and trying to enjoy your family and friends at the same time. Here are a few ways musicians can avoid turning into a Grinch and…
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13 Ways Musicians Can Spread Holiday Cheer
As you’ve probably heard by now, it’s the most wonderful time of the year! You might not be convinced if you’re trying to find last-minute gifts, preparing to host family and friends, or just experiencing the end-of-year craziness, so here are a few ways musicians can spread some holiday cheer this December: Perform at local hospitals, nursing homes, or anywhere…
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An End of Term Note of Encouragement for Musicians
Whether you are currently a music student, teacher, freelancer, or any other type of musician, you are probably feeling the stress as another year comes to a close. Compounding that anxiety is the realization that we are about to enter another decade! I’m here to reassure you that you are so close to finishing this hurdle in your musical journey.…
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10 Clarinet Concerti Written During the Last 10 Years
Wow at how the time flies! I can hardly believe another decade is nearly over! To celebrate another wonderful ten years of clarinetistry, here are ten clarinet concerti written this last decade I’ve enjoyed (arranged alphabetically by composer’s last name): Sérgio Azevedo – Clarinet Concerto Unsuk Chin – Clarinet Concerto David Gompper – Clarinet Concerto (which is an orchestrated expansion…
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How to Play Well When You’re Feeling Under the Weather
It’s that time of year again – and I’m not talking about the holiday cheer! Stress is high, immune systems are weak, and many of us are battling the unfortunate realities of cold and flu season. Unfortunately, the music doesn’t always stop when we’re feeling under the weather. As we all know, the show must go on, even if you’re…
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Why Am I Squeaking? A Troubleshooting Guide for Clarinetists
To anyone just starting out on their clarinet journey (and even to some seasoned professionals), there is nothing worse than a squeak. The horror, the shame, the embarrassment, the humiliation! The good news is that you’re in good company – squeaks are part of the growth process for clarinetists, and we have all squeaked (many times!) throughout our clarinet careers.…
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The Complete Guide to Mindfulness and Meditation for Musicians
Around a year ago, I began meditating as a way to regain focus and perform more intentionally (both onstage and in the practice room). Meditation has helped me grow creatively and artistically, and I’ve noticed its effects both in music and other aspects of my life. Meditation is completely risk-free, and I strongly believe that all musicians should consider incorporating…