Clarinet lessons, costs and facts. All you need to know, really...

At a glance:

● Sophisticated instrument
● Play solo or in a group
● Practical and versatile
● Classes in all styles

The Lowdown

Clarinet lessons introduce you to the smooth sound of this stalwart of the woodwind family. There are over a dozen types of clarinet but most clarinet lessons will be taught on the Bb clarinet. Dating back to the 18th Century the clarinet is played by blowing through the reed in the mouthpiece. Once your clarinet teacher has you making a sound, you can change the note by pressing the different keys and tone holes on the instrument’s body. Once you’ve got those basics sorted, the world is your oyster.  

The Crowd

Clarinet lessons attract lovers of all styles of music. Often used as a solo instrument in classical music by greats like Mozart, it’s also great to hear in traditional jazz and Big Band music. So if you’re on the lookout for new things to do in London why not give it a try. While you usually take clarinet lessons on your own, it’s great fun to get involved in a band or orchestra and a brilliant way to meet people as well.    

The Cost

Clarinet lessons in London are not hard to come by and you’ll have no problem finding a clarinet teacher for whatever style of music you want to learn. But if your TasterLab taster gives you a real taste for the instrument, you’ll need to buy your own clarinet. Recommended entry level instruments like the Buffet B-12 start from the £350 mark with prices rising from there. With that in mind, a secondhand instrument could be a good option.

And Finally...

And finally, it’s not just professional musicians who fall in love with the instrument, here’s renowned director Woody Allen to show what you could be capable of after some clarinet lessons.