Elements of Contemporary Clarinet Technique

Book excerpt: Inspired by the periodic table of elements, "Elements of Contemporary Clarinet Technique" takes the advancing clarinetist through a series of progressive etudes that address techniques both fundamental and extended. Chock full of new etudes for a new age, "Elements of Contemporary Clarinet Technique" explores foundational techniques like effective slurring, light articulation, and stable breath support while also delving into modern processes like circular breathing, double and slap tonguing, multiphonics, and more. Each etude, crafted by award-winning composer Roger Zare, draws its inspiration from a different element of the periodic table: "Gold" shimmers with lustrous connections, while "Oxygen" offers a chance for extreme breath control under musical duress and "Neon" sparkles in the upper register. Each etude is introduced and explored with a written masterclass and performance guide from acclaimed clarinetist Andy Hudson, who breaks down the technical and musical challenges of each etude, making this an invaluable resource for the progressing clarinetist. A true collaboration between composer and pedagogue, "Elements of Contemporary Clarinet Technique" sees longtime collaborators Roger Zare and Andy Hudson set the standard for the modern etude book in terms of progressive growth, nuanced musical development, and performance application.