Description
Inspired by the periodic table of elements, “Elements of Contemporary Clarinet Technique” takes the advancing clarinetist through a series of progressive concert etudes that address techniques both fundamental and extended. Chock full of dazzling new works for our present age, this exciting collection explores foundational techniques like effective slurring, light articulation, and stable breath support while also laying the groundwork for clarinetists to explore modern processes like circular breathing, double and slap tonguing, multiphonics, and more.
Each etude, crafted by award-winning composer Roger Zare (who has been praised by the New York Times for his “enviable grasp of orchestration), draws its inspiration from a different element of the periodic table: “Silver” and “Gold” shimmer with lustrous connections, “Oxygen” demands extreme breath control, and “Neon” sparkles in the upper register. This collection also features a rollicking guest etude from celebrated composer Viet Cuong (called “alluring” and “wildly inventive” by the New York Times). Each of the 22 etudes is introduced and explored with a written masterclass and performance guide from acclaimed clarinetist Andy Hudson, who breaks down the technical and musical challenges of each etude, making this an invaluable resource for the progressing clarinetist.
A true collaboration between composer and pedagogue, “Elements of Contemporary Clarinet Technique” sees longtime collaborators Roger Zare and Andy Hudson set the standard for the modern etude book in terms of progressive growth, nuanced musical development, and performance application. This is a must-have for every modern music collection.
Derek Bermel –
This book of etudes is a love letter to the clarinet. Roger Zare and Andy Hudson explore a wide spectrum of expressive techniques in a collaborative, comprehensive tour-de force.
Derek Bermel, DMA – Artistic Director, American Composers Orchestra,
World-Renowned Clarinetist & Composer
Robert Spring –
In 2021, things that used to be “extended” techniques are now “required” techniques on the clarinet. Andy and Roger have created a masterwork book that covers the “how-to,” with wonderful concert etudes to help develop these techniques. I will purchase a copy and have my students get this as a great new teaching and musical tool! Thank you for this great addition to our repertoire.
Robert Spring, DMA – Professor of Music, (Clarinet), Arizona State University
Scott McAllister –
“Elements of Contemporary Clarinet Technique” is a wonderfully crafted book. The collaboration of one of the leading, cutting-edge clarinetists in the world and a world-class composer has created an informative guide for every composer and clarinetist. It will be next to my desk as a handy resource for years to come.
Scott McAllister, Ph.D – Professor of Composition; Director, Academic Studies Division,
Baylor University
Mariam Adam –
Seemingly insurmountable challenges in extended technique are made palatable and thoroughly presented in “The Elements of Contemporary Clarinet.” This is a fabulous ‘instruction manual’ to all sounds a clarinetist and their instrument can make through the musical lens of Roger Zare and Viet Cuong. Bravo!
Mariam Adam, Assist. Prof of Clarinet, Blair School of Music, Vanderbilt University,
Founding Clarinetist, Imani Winds
Frank Ticheli –
Composer Roger Zare and clarinetist Andy Hudson have come together to create an engaging, fiercely imaginative, and wide-ranging set of solo clarinet compositions that are at once challenging and downright fun to play—each one a gem, each gem prefaced by profoundly elegant and helpful performance suggestions. Clarinetists who use this fun and challenging book will be awakened to new ways of thinking about their instrument and their artistry.
Frank Ticheli, DMA – Professor of Composition, USC Thornton School of Music
John Bruce Yeh –
Wow! This collection is a formidable magnum opus. These masterclasses have a wealth of amazing information on both traditional and extended techniques and musical approaches. Andy Hudson and Roger Zare bring clarinet playing completely into the 21st century and beyond!
John Bruce Yeh, Assistant Principal Clarinet, Chicago Symphony Orchestra