Best
Music Stand
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Overall: Use At Home And Rehearsals Alike
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Best Feature: Adjustable From 650mm To 1225mm, Perfect For All Musicians!
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Mouthpiece
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Overall: Wider Tip Opening Facilitating A Clear, Expressive Tone
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Best Feature: Accuracy In Articulation And Intonation
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TedScore™: 9/10
Best
Clarinet Stand
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Overall: Suitable for both A and Bb clarinets
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Best Feature: Carrying Back And Forth To Lessons And Rehearsals
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TedScore™: 8/10
Scores of **clarinet accessories** exist, each with its own level of importance. Some are absolutely **essential** like reeds and mouthpieces, while others, such as smart cases, offer splendid protection for your instrument. Then there are those seemingly complicated, battery-powered gadgets that might just make your clarinet play like a dream!
It can be a bit overwhelming to make choices when faced with the sheer number in music shops and online.
This article aims to de-mystify and recommend a range of clarinet accessories that will help you to progress and thrive as a musician.
Essential Accessories for Clarinets
There are two clarinet accessories, without which your clarinet just will not work – they are a mouthpiece and a reed. There is a huge range of both reeds and mouthpieces for clarinet players to choose from and choosing your set-up is a very personal process. What suits you may not suit another musician.
The recommendations below only scratch the surface of those available; make sure that you try lots of different mouthpieces and reeds, and you’ll soon find something that really suits you and helps you produce the sound and tone that you’re aiming for.
Clarinet Mouthpieces
The vast majority of clarinets come complete with a mouthpiece. These mouthpieces are usually designed very basic and only suitable to play for a few weeks whilst the student gets to feel comfortable with the instrument and starts making their first sounds.
The best way to improve your tone quality, tuning and intonation is to replace this basic mouthpiece with a better quality one. Mouthpieces come in various designs, and the price can range hugely – some of the top-of-the-range mouthpieces can even cost more than a beginner clarinet!
We have made some recommendations for you to check out at various price points.
1. Budget Mouthpiece
Yamaha is a very well-respected brand and is especially well-known for their saxophones. They make plastic and wooden clarinets and a range of clarinet accessories. Their mouthpieces are relatively inexpensive and an excellent option for beginner students and professionals alike.
The Yamaha 4c is a fantastic mouthpiece, with versions available for both the Bb and bass clarinet.
DESIGNED FOR: All clarinettists from beginners to professionals.
FEATURES: Small chamber helps the player obtain a full, clear tone.
OTHER INFO: Excellent value for money
Yamaha 4c Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Budget friendly
- Very easy blowing, so it helps build confidence as the sounds start to flow
- Suitable for all genres and styles of music
- Be careful with your choice of reed - if your reed is too soft, the tone produced can be rather brittle, especially in the upper register.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
2. Intermediate Mouthpiece
Once you have been learning for a few years, you’ll have a better idea of the kind of player that you want to be and the tone that you’re aiming to produce. This is an excellent time to upgrade your mouthpiece.
Try as many different mouthpieces as you can, and try recording yourself when you test them and listen out for the subtle, and not so subtle, differences between the mouthpieces. Choosing a new mouthpiece can be an enjoyable process!
The French brand Vandoren is world-renown for its clarinet accessories, particularly its range of reeds and mouthpieces. They really do have something for everyone in their huge assortment of mouthpieces.
The M30 is a brilliant mouthpiece and a popular choice among advancing students and professional clarinet players.
DESIGNED FOR: Accuracy in articulation and intonation
FEATURES: Wider tip opening facilitating a clear, expressive tone
OTHER INFO: Popular mouthpiece
Vandoren Traditional Bb Clarinet mouthpiece, M30
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Easy blowing so helps develop a clear, round tone and a fantastic range of dynamics.
- Now made in both traditional and lyre versions.
- Readily available online and in specialist music shops.
- Best used with a slightly harder reed, so look elsewhere if you use softer reeds.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
3. Professional Mouthpiece
There are many mouthpieces for professionals to choose from, and as mentioned above, choosing one is a very personal process. As well as ‘professional’, these mouthpieces could also be described as ‘advanced’. They are often quite expensive, but if well looked after can last for years and years.
Professional players often have a selection of mouthpieces and swap and change depending on the repertoire they are playing or the venue they are performing in. Something that works well for a big orchestral work in a huge theatre, might not be quite right for some subtle chamber music performed in a smaller venue.
Vandoren, Yamaha and D’Addario all have brilliant ranges of mouthpieces, but a stand out is the D’Addario Reserve X10. The X10 is inspired by a mouthpiece that Rico produced in the 1920s but has been updated and refined. It is a very consistent mouthpiece due to the manufacturing and cleaning techniques that D’Addario use, and it is perfect for ensemble and solo playing.
DESIGNED FOR: Use across all musical genres
FEATURES: Extremely consistent due to unique steel milling and steel manufacture techniques
OTHER INFO: Quick responding for fantastic clarity of tone and articulation.
D'Addario Reserve Bb Clarinet Mouthpiece, X10
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Milled rather than moulded for greater consistency between the mouthpieces.
- Made from very robust, hard rubber.
- Produces an even tone across all registers.
- Suitable for solo, chamber and large orchestral playing.
- As with most high-quality mouthpieces, this one is quite expensive.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Clarinet Reeds
Choosing a clarinet reed can feel like a bit of a minefield. There is a very handy Ted’s List article which goes into more detail about reeds, their make-up and how to look after them. One top tip; always make sure you take your reed off and let it dry after each playing session! The article is here for you to read and includes a few more recommendations for reeds and gadgets.
When choosing your instrument and first reed, ask your teacher for tips and recommendations; they can guide you to something great that will help you make those all important first sounds without struggling.
As with all other clarinet accessories, there are many reeds on the market for you to choose from. Beware of very cheap, unbranded reeds. They are of inferior quality and won’t last. Reliable brands such as Rico by D’Addario and Vandoren are always a safe bet and are much, much better quality.
Here are a few recommendations for reeds to use at various different points in your musical journey.
4. Beginner Clarinet Reeds
When you first start playing the clarinet, it is a good idea to choose a reed that will be responsive and easy to play. This will help you produce those first precious sounds fairly easily, greatly improving your confidence! It is usually recommended to use a fairy soft reed when you first start playing the clarinets – between a strength 1.5 and 2.
Rico by D’Addario reeds are an excellent option for a beginner.
DESIGNED FOR: Beginner students
FEATURES: Thin vamp and unfiled to make them easy to play.
OTHER INFO: Often dubbed "the educators choice" due to their great popularity with teachers.
Rico by D'Addario Bb clarinet reeds
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Easy playing.
- Available in boxes of ten.
- Individually wrapped to avoid damage and warping.
- The thin tip is quite easy to damage so be careful not to bump it!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
5. "Best all-rounder" Clarinet Reeds
The French brand Vandoren are well known for its expertise when it comes to clarinet accessories. We have already recommended their mouthpieces, and their reeds are also top-notch.
One of the most popular choices of reeds, by both students and professionals, is the Vandoren Traditional clarinet reed. It is a really versatile reed, perfect for all types of music, from classical to jazz and beyond. It is readily available online and in most music shops. A safe and popular choice for all clarinettists!
DESIGNED FOR: Students and professionals alike
FEATURES: Suitable for all genres of music
OTHER INFO: Available in packs of 3 and 10 in a full range of strengths from 1 to 5
Vandoren Traditional Bb clarinet reeds
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Individually wrapped to protect from warping and damage
- Designed to produce a warm, rich tone
- A fantastic workhorse of a reed!
- Boxes of ten can be quite expensive
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
6. Specialist Clarinet Reeds
Reeds make such a difference to a musician’s tone, articulation, tuning and intonation. Many brands make reeds that can tweak the tone that is produced with clever and innovative manufacturing techniques.
The clarinet is often described as having a smooth, rich tone and the Vandoren V12 reed is designed specifically to help the clarinets produce this. It uses cane with the same thickness as an alto saxophone reed and naturally produces a gorgeous rich, creamy sound.
DESIGNED FOR: Developing a dark, rich tone.
FEATURES: Thicker reed which add to the longevity of the reed
OTHER INFO: Also available for the full range of saxophones, Bb, Eb and bass clarinets too!
Vandoren V12 Bb Clarinet reeds
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Thicker cut for a darker, richer sound.
- Well suited to mouthpieces with a longer lay.
- Individually wrapped to protect from humidity and damage.
- Not suitable for use on all mouthpieces.
- Quite an expensive option.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Clarinet Cases
All clarinets come in their own case. These cases are usually good quality and will protect the instrument well. They are, however, quite basic. There will be room for the clarinet, maybe a couple of reeds, a stick of cork grease and not much more. All musicians have quite a lot to carry for rehearsals, lessons or concerts – not only a selection of clarinet accessories (maybe even some recommended in this article!), but you also need your sheet music and maybe your own music stand.
There are cases and accessories available to buy and purchase,
which have plenty of pockets for all your bits and pieces and carry your precious instrument. Upgrading your case and accessories will mean that you don’t have to be weighed down with too many bags when travelling with your instrument, whether that is back and forth to school or as a professional musician.
7. Light Protection Case
The Stagg Clarinet soft case is lightweight but robust. It will protect your clarinet without being too bulky to play and carry.
DESIGNED FOR: An excellent lightweight, budget-friendly option.
FEATURES: Backpack straps and sturdy zips
OTHER INFO: Available in three different colours
Stagg Clarinet Soft Case
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Soft velvet lining to protect the clarinet from scratches and knocks.
- Waterproof outer case with strong zip closures.
- Two large pockets to store accessories and music
- The accessories pockets are rather small
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
8. Medium Protection Case
The Tom and Will Clarinet Gig bag is a similar style to the Stagg case but offers a little more protection. It is a very versatile, sturdy case.
DESIGNED FOR: Young students carrying instruments back and forth to school
FEATURES: Large pockets for accessories and music
OTHER INFO: Versatile carry straps and moulded interior to keep your instrument safe
Tom and Will Clarinet Gig Bag
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Waterproof exterior and double stitched zip closures
- Large accessory and music pockets
- Budget friendly
- No backpack straps
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
9. Best Protection Case
BAM have an excellent reputation as case makers. Their cases are innovative, and sturdy and often come in amazing colours. The case that we recommend is the BAM New Trekking Bb clarinet case. It is incredibly strong and offers the best level of protection for your instrument.
DESIGNED FOR: Transport your clarinet and music stand in one case!
FEATURES: BAM Ballistic Fabric outer provides the best protection for your clarinet
OTHER INFO: Also available in a double case and bass clarinet format
BAM New Trekking Bb clarinet case
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Incredibly strong materials used, both inside and out
- Retractable backpack straps
- Space inside the case for a music stand
- It is one of the more expensive clarinet cases on the market.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Other Clarinet Accessories
As a student progresses, they will find that they will begin to accumulate more clarinet accessories. Some of these are practical accessories to keep your clarinet clean and safe, and some are to help develop your musical skills – tone development, articulation and tuning. This list of recommendations is not exhaustive but will stand you in good stead, especially as you start to play in ensembles
10. Budget Clarinet Stand
A simple stand is such a handy accessory. Rather than leaving your clarinet on a chair or (even worse) the floor, you can keep it out of harm’s way on a stand. There are some fantastic music stands on the market. We would recommend looking out for a model that is easy to use, easy to transport to rehearsals, lessons and concerts, and crucially, sturdy enough to keep your clarinet safe.
The K&M range of clarinet stands is brilliant. They make fantastic quality stands for all kinds of woodwind instruments from piccolo to bass clarinet and bassoon. The majority of their stands for Bb clarinet fold up very small, so they are easy to take back and forth to rehearsals and lessons.
DESIGNED FOR: Carrying back and forth to lessons and rehearsals.
FEATURES: Folds and stores in the bell.
K&M 15228 Clarinet Stand
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Suitable for both A and Bb clarinets.
- Lightweight and compact but with sturdy legs!
- Can be a bit fiddly to put together.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
11. Professional Clarinet Stand
An advancing student or a professional player often needs more than one clarinet during concerts and rehearsals. Orchestral music usually calls for both A and Bb clarinets, often within the same piece. Having both clarinets set up, out of the case and on a music stand ready for quick changes is ideal. Sometimes clarinet players only have a few bars rest in which to swap between instruments!
Two separate clarinet stands can be used in this instance, but there are some excellent stands on the market which hold two clarinets at a time. We recommend the Hercules DS543BB stand which can hold 2 clarinets or flutes.
DESIGNED FOR: Professional multi-instrumentalists
FEATURES: Removable, interchangeable pegs for a variety of instrument combinations
OTHER INFO: Hercules is a very reputable brand and their stands are designed specifically for touring/gigging musicians and this stand is no different.
Hercules DS543BB multi instrument stand
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Swivel legs for extra stability.
- Velvet covered pegs to protect the inside instruments.
- Very strong and durable
- The base is very sturdy and therefore a bit heavy.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
12. Ligature
Ligatures are the little gadget parts that hold the reed onto the mouthpiece of a clarinet. They are generally made out of metal (usually nickel or silver-plated steel); there are also fabric and leather ligatures on the market. The ligature drops over the top of the mouthpiece, and the screws are tightened, ensuring that the reed does not shift when playing.
Clarinets usually come with a very basic ligature but upgrading this can help develop your sound and the ease of articulation. The ligature that we recommend is the Optimum Bb Clarinet ligature from the French brand Vandoren – such a great brand for clarinet accessories.
This video includes a brilliant review of the Optimum ligature and explains the three different plates that come with this ligature.
DESIGNED FOR: All types of music, from classical to jazz.
FEATURES: Interchangeable pressure plates to help adjust the sound produced
OTHER INFO: Supplied with a plastic cap to protect your mouthpiece and reed tips when not in use
Vandoren Optimum Bb Clarinet Ligature
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Fits most Bb clarinet mouthpieces.
- Silver-plated, durable design.
- Simple one-screw design - very easy to use.
- Changing the plates can be a bit of a fiddly job.
- This ligature is quite expensive - there are cheaper options on the market.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
13. Cork Grease
Cork grease is one of the most essential clarinet accessories. The different joints of the clarinet all have tenon corks around the ends. This cork grease holds the joints together. Cork is a natural fabric and can dry out and become very brittle if you don’t keep them greased. The cork grease will then crumble and fall off and necessitate a trip to the instrument repairer – something you should try to avoid!
Corks should be greased about once a fortnight. Smear a thin layer onto your tenon corks and then rub it in until the dry, cork grease feels slightly warm under your fingers. This warmth helps the dry cork grease soak in and keep your corks happy!
DESIGNED FOR: Use on any woodwind instrument
FEATURES: Compact packaging - it can fit into any instrument case
OTHER INFO: A must-have clarinet accessory
Superslick Cork Grease Stick
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Easy application from the lipstick style tube
- Very budget friendly - usually costing under £5
- Small and compact packaging
- Small and compact.......and therefore easy to lose!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
14. Cleaning Supplies
Keeping your clarinet pad clean is absolutely vital. Drying and cleaning your clarinet pad after each use will ensure that the instrument is kept in good condition and will lengthen its usable life. Leaving moisture in an instrument can lead to waterlogged pads, cracks in the body if it’s a wooden clarinet, and even mould – yuk!
Pull-through cleaners are an excellent design for clarinets. They have a weighted string and are usually made of micro-fire material so they do not shed any fluff inside the instrument. Our recommended product comes as a set of two cleaners – one for the main body of the clarinet and a smaller one for the mouthpiece.
DESIGNED FOR: Keeping your clarinet and mouthpiece clean
FEATURES: includes everything you need to keep your instrument in top condition
OTHER INFO: Includes Cork Grease, Cloth and Brushes
Clarinet Maintenance Care Kit by Gear4music
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Perfect for all clarinets
- None!
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Bonus Accessories for Clarinet Players
15. Strap
Some musicians like to use a strap when playing. A neck strap can help to redistribute the instrument’s weight, taking the strain off the wrists and thumbs. Make sure that you choose a strap that is adjustable so that the length can be changed to suit the individual’s height and playing style. We recommend the range by BG, especially the non-elastic slings.
DESIGNED FOR: Students or players avoiding strain injuries
FEATURES: Cotton neck pad for extra comfort
OTHER INFO: Non-elastic strap so your instrument won't "bounce".
BG C20LP Bb Clarinet Sling
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Leather connectors make it suitable for all thumb rests.
- Fully adjustable and comfortable.
- If not used properly it can affect posture.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
16. Tuner
Metronomes and tuners help develop a sense of pulse and tuning and are helpful tools when preparing for exams or practising ensemble music at home.
There are smartphone apps that do the same job as an electric tuner, but these can be unreliable, and we all know how distracting phones can be, especially in a practice room! It is best to invest in a proper tuner instead. We recommend the range by Korg.
DESIGNED FOR: Use at home and in rehearsals.
FEATURES: Simple and easily read display.
OTHER INFO: Compact but simple to use - perfect for a gigging musician!
Korg CA-50 Chromatic Tuner
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Small and compact.
- Sound-out function allows tuning by ear as well as by eye
- Adjustable to tune to different frequencies if required.
- The batteries will need changing on occasion - not rechargeable.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
17. Metronome
Playing with a metronome can help develop a sense of pulse and rhythm. It is also a good way to ensure that you are playing repertoire at appropriate speeds. Again there are smartphone apps available, but a metronome made by a specialist music brand is a much better, more reliable option. A metronome with a clear display and headphone jack is an excellent choice.
The metronome that we recommend is again a model by Korg – a very reliable brand for musical gadgets and accessories. The MA-2 has a clear screen and a timer option to set warm-up and practice times.
DESIGNED FOR: Developing your pulse/speed skills
FEATURES: A clear, easily read display
OTHER INFO: Tap/reset buttons for quick changes between speeds
Korg MA-2 Metronome
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Easy to use with clear controls and display.
- Adjustable volume, timer and sound-out functions.
- Headphone jack to keep your speeds, quite literally, in your ear!
- The batteries will need changing on occasion - not rechargeable.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
18. Music Stand
A music stand is an essential accessory for almost every musician. There are some very cheap stands available, but a cheap stand is often NOT a sturdy stand. Nothing is worse than your stand suddenly collapsing mid-lesson or even mid-concert!
Ensure you buy a strong, foldable stand – it will serve you well! We recommend the range by K&M, especially the K&M 101 Music stand which comes with a handy carry bag.
DESIGNED FOR: Use at home and rehearsals alike.
FEATURES: Foldable stand with a weather-proof carry bag
OTHER INFO: Adjustable from 650mm to 1225mm, perfect for all musicians!
K&M 101 Music Stand
When you check the price above, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Gear4music.
It is the largest music retailer in the UK and fast becoming the most respected online music shop in the US too. Their customer service is excellent, they have competitive prices, really fast shipping, and usually have the longest guarantee.
Most professional musicians use Gear4music, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t too!
- Made from very sturdy steel - very durable and virtually unbreakable!
- A deep music tray which will hold not only music but small accessories too, including that all-important pencil!
- Adjustable height so perfect whether you are sitting or standing to play.
- One of the heavier stands on the market.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Clarinet Accessories
Summary
We hope that this whistle-stop tour through the world of clarinet parts and clarinet accessories has proved to be useful and enlightening!
As mentioned, some accessories are more essential than others, but all of them are useful, whether you are a student just starting out or a seasoned professional. Have fun exploring these accessories, and enjoy how they help you develop as a musician.
And, as usual, don’t forget your pencil!
Interestingly, while the article provides a good overview of clarinet accessories, there’s a slight oversight in the discussion on ligatures. It’s imperative to highlight the significance of materials and mechanical design in ligature selection, which directly impact reed vibration and consequently, the instrument’s sound production. Advanced players, particularly those in ensemble settings, might find this omission glaring, as choosing the right ligature can affect blending and articulation in group performances.
love the part about specialist clarinet reeds. always looking for that perfect sound for jazz tunes. great tips
I have to disagree with considering any ‘budget’ stand as even an option. If you care about your clarinet, you wouldn’t dream of letting it rest on anything but the best. Cheap stands are a disaster waiting to happen. Why wasn’t a warning included in this section, Bethan Greenaway? It’s misleading to new players.
hey Bethan Greenaway, got a question about the professional mouthpiece section. is the price jump really worth it for the sound quality? been using an intermediate for a while and wonder if its time to upgrade. thanks
from my experience, a pro mouthpiece can really change your sound. if you got the budget, i say go for it!