Clarinet Conventions
I won’t be going to ClarinetFest this year – my oldest son, Greg, was born on July 4 so it’s a major event in our family (ClarinetFest is typically held the week of July 4 – WHY.) However, I’d love to attend a similar event, and began looking around for other opportunities. There’s quite a few coming up! Check these out:
33rd University of Oklahoma Clarinet Symposium – Oklahoma June 5 - 7, 2008. Go here for info: http://www.ouclarinetsymposium.org/
Claremont Clarinet Festival – Pomona College, Claremont, Ca. June 13 – 15, 2008. For info: http://www.margaretthornhill.com/ClaremontClarinetFestivalConcerts.html
38th International Festival-Institute at Round Top, Round Top, TX June 1 – July 13, 2008. Info: http://festivalhill.org/
Charlottsville Clarinet Workshop June 21, 2008. Email for info: cvilleclarinetworkshop@hotmail.com
And for anyone considering the Clarinet Fest, I’ve heard it’s worth the trip! Here’s the info:
ClarinetFest – Kansas City July 2 – 6, 2008. Go here for info: http://www.clarinet.org/fests/2008/index.asp
Playing during the summer season
I play in a band affiliated with a local community college (Cerritos Community College – go Falcons!) and we are fortunate to be able to assemble year-round. Our summer session begins this week (May 19) and we are looking forward to performing for the City of Cerritos on Memorial Day, July 4, and at the Orange County Fair.
Playing during the summer months presents several challenges – if you are still in school, there is a temptation to “take the summer off”.
If you get over that hurdle (no small accomplishment), the warm, dry weather creates all kinds of “reed issues”. I’ve discovered Legere reeds which can be a godsend. Legere reeds are made from fibracell (NOT plastic) and produce good quality sound, and last forever. Well, not exactly forever, but at least an entire concert/marching season. The down side: Legeres are pricey. The justification – they last so long, they are well worth it.
Opportunities to play are probably more common in summer than any other time of year (google “band concerts in the park” for your area, and I’m sure you’ll see several). So, sign up! Enjoy! Keep playing through the warm summer months (but use sunscreen and drink plenty of water).
The clarinet clairvoyant