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What age to start clarinet lessons, do you think?

7 replies

Cadelaide · 28/12/2008 18:15

We have a clarinet and a flute here at home. DD is asking for clarinet lessons but she's only 7, what d'you reckon?

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mummyloveslucy · 28/12/2008 19:11

definatly, if she's showing an interest. I think 7 is fine. Do you play? if so, could you teach her ?

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belgo · 28/12/2008 19:13

I would get her recorder lessons first. I'm sure I've heard that seven is physically too young for clarinet.

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Pacific · 28/12/2008 19:17

My DH is a woodwind teacher in schools.

He thinks that both may be a bit of a stretch for her little fingers but the flute may be better as it has a closed key system.

The recorder is a very useful starting point at age 7 and may be more appropriate for the first year.

DH is around at the moment if you want further advice.

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Earlybird · 28/12/2008 19:26

DD expressed interest in learning the flute when she was 6. I found a teacher who suggested she start on recorder first for several reasons: missing front teeth, weight of flute, small size of dd's hands.

Dd is now almost 8, and has loved learning to read music and play the recorder. I think it is a great starting point, though must soon have a conversation with teacher about when dd will be ready to switch to flute.

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Earlybird · 28/12/2008 19:27
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islandofsodor · 29/12/2008 23:32

I'd say a child needs their 2nd set of teeth before starting the clarinet.

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MaryMotherOfCheeses · 29/12/2008 23:34

Clarinet's quite heavy. Especially on that right hand thumb.

I started with recorder. Perrrsonally.

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