Woodwind
Why Choose the Clarinet?
The clarinet is our most popular instrument.
It's really easy to play and children make progress quickly.
Starting with the Clarinet makes it easier to swap to a Saxophone later on.
There is a Mini Clarinet for smaller children to start on.
Easy to carry around.
About the Clarinet
The clarinet is a member of the woodwind family and was originally made of wood. The sound is produced by a small, thin piece of cane called a reed. It is fastened firmly in the mouthpiece and vibrates when you blow it. The notes are changed by covering different combinations of holes which effectively make the pipe longer or shorter.
The name Clarinet means 'little trumpet' and they are found in woodwind groups, concert bands and symphony orchestras, as well as big bands and jazz groups.
Famous clarinet players include Benny Goodman and Richard Stoltzman, and you will instantly recognise the classic clarinet piece "Stranger on the Shore" performed by Acker Bilk.
Listen to the Clarinet
The clarinet has a beautiful, mellow sound.
Click here to listen to an example.
More useful information
As the Clarinet is easy to blow, most children will be playing tunes within a few weeks.
The hand positions are natural for beginners and are similar to other reed instruments, so if your child would like to learn the Saxophone in future, this is quite natural.
Some children are too small for the big Clarinet. That's OK, the Mini Clarinet is played in exactly the same way.
All full sized Clarinets supplied by Normans Musical Instruments are brand new.
Looking after your clarinet is really easy. For more information on caring for your clarinet click here.
Reeds will need to be replaced from time to time as they are fragile and wear out eventually.
