Easy Winners: 1st Clarinet Book

Kinyon built this collection around a teaching reality: young clarinetists need the specific motivation that comes from soloing with a full band behind them. The accompaniments are well-crafted enough to sound musical without overshadowing the soloist, which means your students stay engaged and accountable during every rehearsal.

These solos strike an encouraging tone, designed to feel achievable while still offering a moment of spotlight. The writing respects the young clarinetist's developing technique while creating a genuine ensemble experience, not a polished-off afterthought.

This collection serves first clarinet players in beginning band programs who are ready to build confidence through solo performance. Students at this level benefit from the structured challenge of balancing with an ensemble while maintaining musical focus on their own part.

• Balance your tone with the band accompaniment by listening carefully to the ensemble's dynamic level during rehearsal; the goal is projection, not forcing volume.
• Practice the solo separately with just a piano or recording first to secure intonation and phrasing before rehearsing with the full band.
• Mark the rests and section transitions clearly so you can hear where the band is even when you're not playing.

Rotate these solos through the concert calendar as confidence-builders for your first clarinet section. One selection can anchor a winter or spring concert program, giving your younger soloists a realistic performance goal while keeping accompaniment demands manageable for the full band.

• Solo performance with ensemble support and balance
• Listening and responding to band accompaniment
• Phrasing and interpretation at an accessible level
• Confidence in public solo performance