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Home >> Clarinet Studio : Applied Study |
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Clarinet Applied Study: Where Careers are Formed. TECHNOLOGY IN THE STUDIO The studio is also equipped with a SmartMusic (TM) personal interactive accompaniment system that enables each student to benefit from piano or orchestral accompaniment on a much more regular basis. This interactive accompaniment device is operated with a computer and a sound system, and houses a 32-voice sample-based sound engine and pitch recognition circuitry. It is a great tool to enhance everyday practice, and prepare for recitals and competitions. Video equipment is used to study body movement and various techniques such as embouchure, tonguing, and finger/hand position. Naturally, I ask each student's permission before video recording a mini session. iPods and other digital recording devices are used to record lessons and to administer listening tests in studio class. Students can listen to listening test repertoire online and view all my teaching videos based on by book Clarinet Secrets via Blackboard or through a free podcast subscription on iTunes (in iTunes store, search "Gingras" in podcasts) My Teaching videos (20 of the "Clarinet Secrets" in video form) are also available under reserve at the Amos Music Library at Miami. In keeping with my unending quest for enhancing teaching with technology, I am now working with my colleague violin professor Dr. Harvey Thurmer to develop a virtual performing environment with special applications, which will be used to help reduce performance anxiety. Stay tuned!
Along with an indepth focus on a curriculum including the complete standard classical repertoire, orchestral repertoire, etudes, technique, tone, articulation, sight-reading, pedagogy, musical development, performance practice, reed work, literature, transposing, instrument doubling, and stage presence, I introduce to students some aspects of performance which are important for today's clarinetists: The study of contemporary and Avant-Garde techniques, circular breathing, double tonguing, Klezmer and other world music, electronic music, and jazz, depending on each student's interest. Concrete solutions are taught in order to conquer challenging technical and musical concepts, many of them illustrated in my book Clarinet Secrets—52 Performance Strategies for the Advanced Clarinetist (Scarecrowpress, 2006). I also stress the importance of participation in competitions, conferences, festivals, auditions, interviews, and assist each motivated student to reach their highest goals in order to obtain employment in their chosen field. I assist Juniors and Seniors in finding private students and summer (music) employment to strengthen their musical background and resumé. Where appropriate, we work together toward Graduate School auditions. I follow each student throughout their career at Miami, as well as well after their graduation. Principles of Work Ethics and Job Retention Strategies for Musicians are discussed throughout the year to empower students and enhance their careers now and in the future. A highly individualized career plan is designed for each student and meticulously revised each semester. Students are introduced to exciting and challenging projects and career-forming activities throughout their study in the clarinet studio, as well as after graduation.
Private instruction is carefully adapted according to each individual's needs. The Clarinet Studio Program of Study is divided into 4 Levels. Each level equals 2 or 3 years of study. Level 4 is usually equivalent to a graduate program. Because the Clarinet Studio Program of Study includes the equivalent of about 8 or 9 years of studies, students perform selected repertoire from each level throughout their studies at Miami.
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Since my arrival at Miami in 1986, I've thrived on keeping up with
the latest technology available to clarinetists. In 1987, my students were among the first to be introduced to the
Electronic Wind Instrument (EWI) by Akai. I've performed all over
the country on the EWI as well as in Canada and Europe. My students
benefit from being exposed to and learning about the EWI's performance
practice and operation.