KJOS MUSIC COMPANY W31CL Standard Excellence Jazz Ensemble Clarinet Method

( Brand: Kjos Music Company ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: W31CL ), ( Part Type: Clarinet ), ( Itemheight: 40 )

Review KJOS MUSIC COMPANY Standard Of Excellence Jazz Ensemble Method Clarinet

The **Kjos Music W31CL Standard Excellence Jazz Ensemble Method for Clarinet** is a meticulously crafted instructional resource designed to elevate the playing skills of intermediate to advanced clarinetists while fostering a deep appreciation for jazz and ensemble performance. Part of the acclaimed *Standard Excellence Jazz Ensemble Method* series, this book offers a comprehensive approach to mastering the nuances of jazz clarinet, blending technical precision with expressive artistry. The method begins with foundational exercises that refine tone production, articulation, and breath control, ensuring students develop a solid technical foundation before delving into the intricacies of jazz phrasing and improvisation. Each lesson is thoughtfully structured to progress from basic scales and intervals to more complex harmonic progressions, with an emphasis on developing a rich, resonant tone that is characteristic of jazz clarinetists like Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw. The inclusion of jazz-specific etudes and repertoire pieces ranging from classic standards like *"Caravan"* and *"Blue Bossa"* to original compositions provides students with authentic musical challenges that encourage both solo and ensemble performance skills. Additionally, the method incorporates insightful discussions on jazz theory, rhythm, and improvisation, helping students understand the underlying concepts that drive jazz composition and performance. The clear, large-print notation and detailed fingerings make it accessible for self-study, while the accompanying audio resources (available separately) offer invaluable guidance on phrasing, dynamics, and ensemble interaction. Whether used in a classroom setting or for private study, this clarinet method serves as an indispensable tool for musicians seeking to refine their craft and embrace the vibrant, expressive world of jazz ensemble playing.

The **Kjos Music W31CL Standard Excellence Jazz Ensemble Method Clarinet** is a comprehensive method designed for intermediate to advanced clarinet players interested in jazz and ensemble playing. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros**

1. **Comprehensive Jazz Education**

The method provides a structured approach to jazz clarinet playing, covering essential concepts such as improvisation, jazz harmony, rhythm (swing, blues, and other styles), and ensemble dynamics. It includes exercises, etudes, and repertoire that bridge classical and jazz techniques.

2. **High-Quality Repertoire**

The book features a mix of original compositions and arrangements by jazz legends, as well as pieces by contemporary jazz educators. This ensures that students engage with music that is both pedagogically valuable and musically engaging.

3. **Performance-Oriented**

Unlike purely classical methods, this book emphasizes performance skills, including articulation, phrasing, and expression critical for jazz musicians. It also includes tips on tone production, breath control, and improvisation techniques.

4. **Ensemble Focus**

The method is designed for use in jazz ensembles, which means it includes parts that can be played with other instruments (e.g., trumpet, saxophone, piano). This is ideal for students who want to play in groups or prepare for auditions for jazz bands.

5. **Clear Instruction and Progression**

The book is organized logically, starting with foundational concepts (e.g., scales, arpeggios, rhythm) and gradually introducing more advanced topics like modal jazz, extended harmonies, and complex improvisation. Each section builds on the previous one, making it accessible for intermediate players.

6. **Includes Audio and Backing Tracks**

Many editions of this method come with accompanying audio resources (available separately or bundled), which include demonstrations of the pieces, rhythm tracks, and backing tracks for improvisation. This is invaluable for practicing phrasing, timing, and soloing.

7. **Well-Respected Publisher**

Kjos Music is a reputable publisher known for high-quality educational materials. The Standard Excellence series is particularly well-regarded for its balance of technical rigor and musicality.

8. **Versatility**

The method can be used for individual practice, classroom instruction, or ensemble rehearsals. It is also suitable for students preparing for jazz auditions or festivals.

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### **Cons**

1. **Price**

The method is not inexpensive. The book itself, along with any required audio resources or supplementary materials (e.g., backing tracks), can add up in cost. This may be a barrier for students or schools with limited budgets.

2. **Assumes Prior Experience**

While the book is labeled as "Standard Excellence," it is not a beginner method. Students need a solid foundation in classical clarinet technique (e.g., scales, long tones, basic repertoire) before tackling this material. Beginners may find it overwhelming without prior instruction.

3. **Jazz-Specific Challenges**

Jazz clarinet playing involves unique skills (e.g., altissimo register, growling, multiphonics) that are not covered in classical methods. While this book addresses some of these, students may still need additional resources or private lessons to fully develop jazz-specific techniques.

4. **Limited Classical Content**

If a student s primary goal is classical clarinet playing, this method may not provide enough classical repertoire or technical exercises. It is jazz-focused, so classical players might need to supplement with other materials.

5. **Audio Resources May Be Separate**

While the audio resources are highly valuable, they are often sold separately, which can be an additional expense. Some editions may not include audio at all, requiring students to purchase it separately.

6. **Potential Overwhelm for Some Students**

The density of material especially in later sections can be daunting for some students. The method moves quickly through concepts, which may require extra practice time or guidance from a teacher to fully grasp.

7. **Not a Standalone Method for All Skills**

While excellent for jazz ensemble and improvisation, this book does not cover all aspects of clarinet playing, such as orchestral excerpts, solo literature, or advanced classical techniques. Students may need additional resources for a well-rounded education.

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### **Conclusion**

The **Kjos Music W31CL Standard Excellence Jazz Ensemble Method Clarinet** is an outstanding resource for intermediate to advanced clarinet players who are serious about jazz ensemble playing, improvisation, and performance. Its structured approach, high-quality repertoire, and emphasis on ensemble skills make it one of the best methods for students looking to develop jazz-specific techniques. However, it is not a beginner book and may require additional resources for students with classical or soloistic goals.

The method s strengths lie in its practicality, musicality, and focus on performance, but its cost and jazz-specific nature mean it may not be the best fit for everyone. Students who are already comfortable with basic clarinet technique and are eager to explore jazz will find this book invaluable.

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### **Recommendation**

- You are an intermediate to advanced clarinet player with a solid foundation in classical technique.

- Your primary interest is jazz ensemble playing, improvisation, or performance in a jazz context.

- You are part of a jazz band or ensemble and need repertoire that aligns with your group s style.

- You have access to or are willing to invest in additional audio resources (backing tracks, demonstrations).

- You are preparing for jazz auditions, festivals, or competitions.

- You are a beginner and need a more gradual introduction to clarinet playing.

- Your focus is primarily classical or solo clarinet repertoire.

- You are on a tight budget and cannot afford the cost of the book plus supplementary materials.

- You need a method that covers a broader range of clarinet skills (e.g., orchestral excerpts, advanced classical techniques).

- A classical etude book (e.g., *Long s Classical Etudes for Clarinet*) for technical development.

- A jazz improvisation book (e.g., *Hal Leonard Jazz Play-Along Series* or *Jazz Clarinet Method* by Bob Mintzer) for additional practice.

- Private lessons with a jazz clarinet instructor to refine improvisation and ensemble skills.

In summary, this is a **highly recommended** purchase for jazz-oriented clarinet players, but it should be part of a broader educational plan depending on individual goals.

Details:

The flexible scoring allows for a full-sounding ensemble with as few half the standard instrumentation. Minimum instrumentation for method effectiveness 2-XE, 1-XB, 2-TP, 1-TB, 1-P, 1-B, 1-D The SOE Jazz Ensemble Method is designed use by mid, JR, HS, community jazz ensembles, and in the private studio. W31CL - Standard of Excellence Jazz Ensemble Method Clarinet. The book is divided into three sections, each representing a different jazz style: rock, swing, and Latin.

Each section contains rhythm studies and improvisation which may be played with other members of the ensemble or accompanying CD affixed to back cover. The directors score include tips on player selection, band setup, audio reinforcement, Music rehearsal suggestions etc. Each section of the book also includes jazz chart 13 total that applies what is learned in rhythm and improvisation studies.

part #: w31cl price

• $14.99

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• brand: Kjos Music Company
• mpn: W31cl
• part type: Clarinet
• itemheight: 40

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