Where you buy a used clarinet can be extremely important. Buying online might seem like a good idea, but you can’t be guaranteed the instrument will work. Even worse, it can be difficult to return the clarinet if it doesn’t meet your expectations. A good place to start if you are looking for a used clarinet is at a music shop that also sells and repairs new instruments. If you know a student who has outgrown his or her clarinet, you might also be able to work out a bargain.

If you’re a beginner, a very soft reed might be better than an extremely rigid one. Likewise, a basic mouthpiece could be sufficient until you develop proper techniques. It can be a good idea to assemble the clarinet and then test these pieces to see if you are comfortable using them. While you are trying the instrument out, look these pieces over to see if there are any cracks or chips in them, as this can affect the sound the clarinet makes. Different materials make different sounds, so you may want to try wood, plastic, and metal to see if you might have a preference.

There are several cheap models, but you should try to buy a reputable brand if possible. Inexpensive clarinets often break easily and are sometimes difficult to find repair parts for. Ask the instrument dealer to tell you a little bit about different brands so you can choose a model that is both durable and within your budget.

Mouthpieces for clarinets come in various sizes depending on the type of clarinet you are playing, soprano, sopranino, alto, bass, or contabass. Each take their own size of mouthpiece, however Bb and A are very close in size and can sometimes be used for both. The mouth pieces often come in different styles, well over a 100 styles exist, and are often named after the musician who designed them. The mouthpiece itself is wooden or polymer, though the old time favorite is wooden for true sound. It has a small narrowed opening on the inside and a square or rectangular cross section from the baffle to the throat.

The reed is the second part of the clarinet that creates sound. Reeds are made from a type of grass, called Arundo donax, and is the only natural reed material used, however there are synthetic varieties on the market, and reed blanks too. When you fasten the reed to your mouth piece and blow, the reed vibrates resonating a rich sound. Reeds are only available in one size, 12mm wide by 15mm long, thus creating a gap of 1mm, however they do come in different degrees of hardness. Many musicians will alter their reeds in order to create new tones on their instruments, altering the sound in a new or different way.

If you can’t figure out whether or not you want to buy or lease your first clarinet, these tips may help you decide.

Can you afford one? – Are you able to afford the exact clarinet you want? If not, you may want to lease one for the time being. This allows you to try it out and save up money for the one you want.

Are you serious about playing? – Are you serious about playing or did you just decide over night you want to play all of a sudden? Buying all the clarinet supplies can be expensive so it’s very important you are going to be dedicated.

Do you know which one you want? – If you don’t know which one you want yet, be sure to lease first. You may figure out which one you want later on.

As you can see, buying a clarinet all depends on your situation, finances and a few other things. Consider these tips and continue to ask yourself until you feel you know the right answer.

If you’re looking to find the best clarinet teacher, here are some tips for the process:

Ask other’s who play: Do you have any friends or family members that play? If so, ask them who they use for a teacher. If they don’t currently have a teacher for lessons, consider asking them if they’d like to join you once you find a good one.

Ask the school’s music teacher: Try going up to the high school in your area and asking the music teacher. Since they know a lot about music, as well as many private teachers, they will more than likely have someone in mind.

Search online: The Internet is also a great place to find a clarinet teacher. When you get online, type in clarinet teachers and then your zip code. There should be websites that pop up with their information.

As you can see, there is a solution for everything. Whether you decide to ask the school’s music teacher or just search online, you will certainly be able to come across several different teachers.

If you’re looking for ways to teach yourself how to play the clarinet, consider these ideas below.

Get instruction books: Whether you order books online or you check them out from the library, there are several basic self teaching books to get you started.

Go online: The Internet is great for many things and in this case, the Internet can help you learn how to play the clarinet. Simply search how to play certain songs or even learn how to play different notes and you’ll be able to find just what you’re looking for.

Check out videos: Consider buying videos of people playing the clarinet. While watching these, you can pick up on their skills and avoid the frustrations you may face on your own. Another great option is to just out videos online as well.

As you can see, there are some great ways you can self teach yourself how to play the clarinet.