First Division Band Method, Part 1: B-flat Clarinet Book

This method has proven itself across more than a century of teaching. The updated edition honors what works while bringing the presentation current, so you get a resource that feels familiar to experienced directors but accessible to students encountering it for the first time. The clarinet book moves at a pace that builds genuine confidence without rushing.

The method unfolds with clear, encouraging progression. Students move from the comfort of single notes and simple rhythms into recognizable melodies and two-part writing, building the muscle memory and reading fluency that make ensemble playing accessible.

Beginning clarinetists in middle school or high school concert bands, and adult learners starting their instrumental journey. This book works equally well for private instruction and full ensemble settings.

• Start with long tones on each new note before moving to the written exercises. This isolates tone production and helps students understand their embouchure's role before adding the complexity of technique.
• Establish a consistent practice routine with the method book as your daily anchor. Five to ten focused minutes each day outperforms longer, irregular sessions.
• Use the songs and melodies as listening models before students play them. Singing or hearing the shape of a phrase first makes the fingering patterns click faster.
• Pair the book with the ensemble, returning to earlier exercises whenever technique needs reinforcement during rehearsal.

Make this your core resource for the first year of clarinet instruction, moving sequentially through the book in tandem with your ensemble's beginner band rehearsals. Return to earlier pages throughout the year to reinforce fundamentals and address individual technique needs.

• Single note production and tone quality
• Basic fingering patterns for B-flat clarinet
• Reading notes on the staff in treble clef
• Rhythmic accuracy in simple and compound meters
• Coordination of articulation and finger movement
• Beginning ensemble listening and blend