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Historic High Notes in Clarinet Repertoire
I’ve always loved hitting the high notes on the clarinet, and I consider it one of my musical strengths. I credit this to the friendly competition I had in high school with my best friends to see who could play higher (thanks Patrick and Robby!) and come up with the most fingerings for each note. (This could also be the…
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7 Things They Don’t Teach You at Music School
Most music programs are rife with a variety of classes, ensembles, and other opportunities for aspiring musicians. You can learn the inner workings of music theory, the beginnings of early music, and any number of other diverse subjects. However, there are just some things that aren’t (normally) taught in most music programs. Most young musicians are met with a harsh…
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2019 March Madness Orchestral Excerpts Tournament
Let’s face it – orchestral excerpts are a necessary part of our clarinet existence. Whether you love them or hate them, they’re required of most serious clarinetists. They teach us valuable fundamentals, ensemble playing skills, and loads of patience throughout the years. Which is why I’ve created the 2019 Jenny Clarinet March Madness – Orchestral Excerpts tournament! This is a…
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Music for Clarinet and Theremin or Ondes Martenot
Updated May 2026 I’ve always been fascinated by unusual instruments (as witnessed by my obsession time spent playing the rare A-flat clarinet). A few months ago, I went down a rabbit hole and began researching the theremin and its not-so-distant relative, the ondes Martenot (sometimes called ondes musicales). These two early electronic instruments emit an eerie sound and immediately sparked…
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My First Solo: A Complete Guide to Choosing & Practicing Clarinet Repertoire
The clarinet is #blessed with a wide variety of repertoire written in all styles and for all skill levels, with a scope from beginner to extremely advanced. This can be overwhelming when you’re making the leap from method and etude books to your first full-blown solo, concerto, sonata, or other serious repertoire.* Here’s everything you need to know to select,…
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My Winter Warm-Up Routine For Cold Days
Move over Black Friday, it’s time for Blue Monday! According to some studies, Blue Monday is supposedly the most depressing day of the year. Even though we made it past Blue Monday 2019 (which fell on January 21), spring still seems so far away amidst this bleak winter. To combat the interminable winter and protect your clarinet from harsh…
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How to Overcome FOMO for Musicians
With the pervasiveness of social media, FOMO (or fear of missing out) is becoming a more common issue. Whether you’re seeing evidence of your friend’s trip to Bali or lusting over somebody’s new designer purchase, it’s easy to feel like the world is passing you by. FOMO is an ugly combination of jealousy, insecurity, and ennui with your own life…
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2019 Horoscopes for Musicians
Happy New Year! Find your zodiac sign below to see what musical adventures 2019 has in store for you! (Disclaimer: These horoscopes were created to be humorous, encouraging, but not to be taken too seriously. After all, my background is in clarinet – not astrology.) Capricorn (December 22-January 19) – After overcoming recent obstacles, you’re ready to try new things.…
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9 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Musicians
Happy New Year! As each year comes to a close, millions of people vow to enter the following year a better person. Here are some ideas for musicians to make 2019 your best year yet: Create a practice routine that sticks. If you struggle with practicing consistently, dedicate the new year to finding a practice plan which is efficient and…
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Famous Celebrities Who Played the Clarinet
We all know that the clarinet is the best instrument around, so it’s no surprise that these celebrities played (or still play!) the clarinet: Don’t forget to check out my list of movies, shows, and series which feature the clarinet! Know any other clarinet-playing celebrities? Leave a comment below so I can add them to the list! Maybe we can…