Belwin Clarinet Method, Book II: Clarinet Book

Book II assumes students have mastered the fundamentals and pushes them into genuine musicianship with articulation studies, interval work, and pieces that sound genuinely musical rather than purely technical. The progression is logical enough that students experience success while facing real challenges.

A bridge between fundamental drill work and real repertoire. The exercises have musical shape, and the etudes and melodies feel like actual pieces rather than exercises in disguise.

Students who have completed Book I and are ready to expand their technical range, develop cleaner articulation, and encounter more substantial solo material. This is ideal for clarinetists in their second or third year of study.

• Pay close attention to Gekeler's articulation markings; the slurred and tongued passages teach phrasing muscle memory that transfers directly to ensemble playing.
• Work scales and interval studies at a steady tempo before jumping to the written melodies; this builds finger independence and intonation control.
• Listen for tone quality as you practice the longer melodic lines; Book II asks for sustained playing that develops your embouchure strength.

Use Book II as the primary method for clarinetists preparing for band placements or first solo recital appearances. The varied material works well alongside ensemble rehearsals, offering focused technique work that addresses issues arising in full band contexts.

• Articulation control (legato, staccato, and mixed articulation patterns)
• Interval reading and intonation across the break
• Sustained tone and breath control through longer phrases
• Sight-reading accuracy at moderate tempos
• Independence between tongue and fingers