The Clarinet Ninja Podcast

Have you ever practiced diligently but struggled in performance? The problem isn't your playing—it's that you're only doing half the practice you need. Free PDF In this episode, I break down the two essential types of practice every clarinetist needs: Practice Practice (building skills) and Practice Performance (accessing those skills under pressure). Most players focus entirely on the first while neglecting the second, which is why performances don't match practice room ability. What You'll Learn: Why playing perfectly in practice doesn't guarantee performance success The difference between Practice Practice and Practice Performance Dr. Noa Kageyama's research on conscious control vs. trusting your preparation Dr. Molly Gebrian's concept of overlearning and why mistakes in practice matter How to use spaced repetition for maximum retention The red, yellow, green system for efficient practice time Why the "easy" spots after difficult passages are performance danger zones How to create effective mock auditions and simulated performances Building your performance day routine for consistent results Key Timestamps: [Add your timestamps here - examples:] 0:00 Introduction: My 1990s performance disaster 3:15 The two types of practice explained 8:30 Practice Practice fundamentals 15:45 The Build-Out Method 22:10 Practice Performance essentials 28:30 Mock performances and mental preparation 35:00 Your 3-week challenge Resources Mentioned: Dr. Noa Kageyama's Bulletproof Musician: bulletproofmusician.com Dr. Molly Gebrian's "Learn Faster, Perform Better" FREE Practice Performance Roadmap: [your link] Ready to transform both your practice and performances? Join the Clarinet Ninja Dojo where we work on these exact skills in live group sessions: [link] Connect with Clarinet Ninja: Website: clarinetninja.com Email: theclarinetninja@gmail.com Facebook Group: Clarinet Ninja Forum Free Beginner/Refresher Course Support the Show: If this episode helped you, please leave a rating and review. It helps other clarinet players find the show!

Larry Guy has played on Broadway, with the New York Philharmonic, NYC Opera, and as principal clarinet of the Joffrey Ballet. But what makes this conversation truly valuable is Larry's incredible body of pedagogical work—books on embouchure, articulation, and definitive editions of the Rose 32 Etudes and Complete Daniel Bonade works. In this episode, Larry reveals why traditional embouchure teaching often makes students look perfect but sound worse, shares the simple coffee cup lid trick that fixes articulation problems instantly, and explains why the "tip of tongue to tip of reed" directive doesn't work for many players (including himself and Robert Marcellus!). We dive deep into his study with legends like Anthony Gigliotti, Dave Weber, and Cal Opperman, and Larry shares fascinating stories about Daniel Bonade that you won't hear anywhere else. If you're an adult clarinet player, you'll especially appreciate Larry's insights on why adults can actually learn clarinet MORE efficiently than children—and how to leverage your adult brain for faster improvement. Key Topics: Why embouchure training must include air flow work The upper lip pressure technique from Gigliotti Double-lip embouchure as daily tonic Articulation without closing your throat How jaw anatomy affects tonguing placement Teaching adults vs children effectively What Rose really intended in the 32 Etudes Daniel Bonade's photographic memory and character Resources mentioned: Larry Guy's books (available through Camco Publishing): The Complete Embouchure Book The Complete Articulation Book Rose 32 Etudes Study Guide The Complete Daniel Bonade Join the Clarinet Ninja Dojo for systematic adult clarinet education: Clarinet Ninja

What clarinet equipment should you actually buy? Join Jay Hassler in this comprehensive clarinet gear guide with Quick Start Clarinet's Josh Goo and Queen Reed's Lynne Snyder as they reveal what to invest in at every budget level. 🎵 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: ✅ Best clarinet equipment for a few hundred dollars (and it's not what you think!) ✅ Clarinet case comparison: Bam vs. Pro-Tech vs. Marcus Bona ✅ When to get a clarinet overhaul vs. clean, oil & adjust ✅ Buying used clarinets: What to look for and where to shop ✅ Why the Buffet E-12-F is an incredible value intermediate clarinet ✅ Josh's rave review of the Backun Alpha bass clarinet ✅ Why most clarinets don't work right out of the box ✅ Trusted clarinet dealers who properly set up instruments 🎼 FEATURED GUESTS: Josh Goo - Quick Start Clarinet founder Lynne Snyder - Queen Reed creator Jay Hassler - Clarinet Ninja host 💡 KEY TAKEAWAY: The best investment for a few hundred dollars? Live concert tickets to hear professional clarinetists, then connect with them afterwards for invaluable advice and inspiration! 🔗 RESOURCES MENTIONED: • Clarinet Ninja Dojo: https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing • Quick Start Clarinet: https://www.quickstartclarinet.com/ • Queen Reed: https://www.lynnesnyder.com/blog • Brian Corbin Clarinet Products: https://corbinclarinetproducts.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorb4r4Sfsk1l2O09v1YRN3wquSiA4sV1YFuO7-xv1qSBxA45W4G • Rodriguez Musical Services: https://rodriguezmusical.com/ • EarSpasm Music (Michael Lowenstern): https://www.earspasm.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopI4YaBfVajYSvi7Xx-8d3B0kdMTzNxUk6YuunBw_0ev9rUySPk 📚 CONTINUE YOUR CLARINET JOURNEY: Join the Clarinet Ninja Dojo for weekly lessons, community support, and direct access to Jay Hassler: https://www.clarinetninja.com 🎙️ ABOUT THE CLARINET NINJA PODCAST: The Clarinet Ninja Podcast brings you expert interviews and practical lessons to help clarinet players of all levels improve, grow, and celebrate the clarinet. 👍 If you found this helpful, please LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and leave a 5-star review! #Clarinet #ClarinetTips #ClarinetGear #MusicEducation #ClarinetLessons #Woodwinds #ClarinetEquipment #ClarinetAdvice #ClarinetCommunity Clarinet Ninja Dojo: https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Clarinet Ninja Forum (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/6777812678921667 Calendly Link - talk to me free: https://calendly.com/theclarinetninja/30min Study clarinet with me - https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Check out: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ Enjoy our best free content https://www.clarinetninja.com/joinus Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/clarinetninja Clarinet Ninja approved products Links are affiliate links - a great (no cost to you) way to support the channel! Mouthpieces: Affordable professional Bb clarinet mouthpiece: Vandoren BD 4 https://amzn.to/3iSEmAc Vandoren 5RV LYRE https://amzn.to/3H1mECA Vandoren M30 https://amzn.to/3J6ExTs Student mouthpiece: Fobes Debut Student debut mouthpiece https://www.clarkwfobes.com/products/debut-clarinet-mouthpiece?variant=39983864774790 Brad Behn Overture mouthpiece https://www.clarinetmouthpiece.com/overture-student-clarinetmouthpiece Vandoren V12 reeds: #3 https://amzn.to/3J6ExTs #3.5 https://amzn.to/3WvJHLD #4 https://amzn.to/3J7LJhY Vandoren Traditional (Blue box) #3 https://amzn.to/3J7LJhY #3.5 https://amzn.to/3ZKTGPY #4 https://amzn.to/3QTusLm Reed cases: Vandoren Hygro case Bb and Eb reeds https://amzn.to/3koZmPo D'Addario Woodwinds Multi-Instrument Reed case https://amzn.to/3XubIVg Rico Reed Guard Bb clarinet https://amzn.to/3J1h06d Brad Behn Reed Cases https://www.clarinetmouthpiece.com/product-page/behn-reed-case Books all clarinetists should have: Baermann third division https://amzn.to/3j2fTsd Kell Staccato studies https://amzn.to/3wkLisZ Jean Jean Vade Mecum https://amzn.to/3J9U6cO Rose 32 etudes https://amzn.to/3J9U6cO Rose 40 etudes https://amzn.to/3GWDwdW Kroepsch 416 progressive studies https://amzn.to/3wj48kb Reed equipment: Ridenour ATG reed finishing system https://amzn.to/3XqF7zu ReedGeek Universal G4 reed tool https://amzn.to/3HnjWZC 400 grit sandpaper https://amzn.to/3H1oof6 600 grit sandpaper https://amzn.to/3j2hiyZ Vandoren V12 Reed Trimmer https://amzn.to/3H7K8r6 Vandoren V21 and 56 Rue Lepic https://amzn.to/3GLkC9I Vandoren Traditional https://amzn.to/3kjMQRi Vandoren Black Master/Black Master Traditional https://amzn.to/3HcErs1 Vandoren White Master https://amzn.to/3kl4hRz Ligatures: Bonade inverted silver plated https://amzn.to/3wlJdNy Vandoren M/O ligature https://amzn.to/3XPYNNg Vandoren Optimum Ligature https://amzn.to/3QYvOof Rovner Mark III https://amzn.to/3J6H7ZEa approved products Links are affiliate links - a great way to support the channel! Clarinet Ninja Dojo: https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Clarinet Ninja Forum (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/6777812678921667 Calendly Link - talk to me free: https://calendly.com/theclarinetninja/30min

Ever wondered what clarinet accessories are actually worth your hard-earned money? In this game-changing episode, Clarinet Ninja host Jay Hasler sits down with two clarinet powerhouses: Josh Goo from Quick Start Clarinet and Lynne Snyder (aka Queen Reed) to decode the mystery of clarinet upgrades. Clarinet NInja Amazon Store - No extra cost to you...but a great way to support the podcast! Clarinet Ninja Merch What You'll Discover: 🎵 The $60 Tool That Changes Everything - Lynne reveals her secret weapon for perfect reeds every single time (and why it beats expensive alternatives) 🎵 The Reed Case That Actually Works - Why the Brad Behn Reed Case is revolutionizing how pros store their reeds (hint: it's about those rails!) 🎵 The Boveda Pack Secret - How 49% humidity can make your reeds predictable and consistent (especially if you live in dry climates) 🎵 The Mouthpiece Truth Bomb - From $150 Vandorens to $300+ custom pieces—what's really worth it at each price point? 🎵 The Cork Grease Game-Changer - Mike Lowenstern's slippery cork secret that makes assembly effortless 🎵 The Tupperware Hack - Why every serious clarinetist needs a dedicated accessory container (and what to put in it) Perfect For: Intermediate players ready to level up Teachers looking for student recommendations Anyone tired of inconsistent reeds Players considering their next upgrade Featured Experts:  Jay Hasler - Clarinet NInja, Clarinet Ninja Dojo Josh Goo - Creator of Quick Start Clarinet, renowned teacher Lynne Snyder - Professional clarinetist, internet personality "Queen Reed" This is Part 1 of a two-part series. Part 2 drops next week with even more upgrade secrets! Don't Miss: The "suck test" demonstration that every clarinetist needs to know (around minute 35) and why tweezers are the most underrated tool in your case. Earspasm - Michael Lowenstern

What does it take to record two groundbreaking clarinet concertos? Join us as we dive deep into Julian Bliss's extraordinary new album featuring the clarinet concertos of Magnus Lindberg and Kalevi Aho—two of today's most compelling contemporary composers. In this episode, we explore: ✨ The technical and artistic challenges of these modern masterworks 🎵 What makes Lindberg and Aho's compositions so unique 🎤 Julian's approach to interpreting contemporary classical music 📀 Behind-the-scenes insights from the recording process, whether you're a clarinetist, classical music lover, or curious about modern orchestral music, this conversation offers invaluable insights into one of the year's most significant clarinet releases. 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES: Julian Bliss Official Website: https://www.julianbliss.com/ Listen to the Album: - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/1iLev7zNHl1X0cn7yi7i5A Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/lindberg-aho-clarinet-concertos/1828201426 Signum Records: https://signumrecords.com/ 🎓 STUDY CLARINET WITH ME: Join the Dojo: https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Clarinet Ninja Website: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ Free Content: https://www.clarinetninja.com/joinus Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/clarinetninja Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review this podcast to help other clarinet enthusiasts discover these conversations! #JulianBliss #ClarinetConcerto #ClassicalMusic #ClarinetPodcast

Clarinetist/composer James Danderfer joins Jay to premiere his new album If Not Now (Celler Records), recorded at the storied Rudy Van Gelder Studio. They dive into choosing clarinet vs. bass clarinet, arranging for a 7-piece band with three horns and vibes, the balance between classical sound concept and modern jazz feel, plus practical gear talk (Hawkins mouthpieces, Legère reeds, Selmer Privilege). Hear how Danderfer treats each record as a snapshot in time—and why bass clarinet remains the most liberating voice in his toolkit. Links: • If Not Now — stream/buy: https://open.spotify.com/album/1Y8dJp1JtcTkMRlU9kIBqj?si=BtKo19KhS0GMCovUd3YPsw\ https://music.apple.com/us/album/if-not-now/1820276471 • James Danderfer: JamesDanderfer.com • Clarinet Ninja Dojo (for adult players): https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Clarinetninja.com If you enjoyed this, please follow, rate, and review—it helps more clarinet lovers find the show.

In this episode we explore how bass clarinet artistry and community work can inform each other. Todd shares how he writes from the life around him, why giving the bass clarinet a leadership role matters, and what adult learners can borrow for tone, time feel, and phrasing. The through line is simple. People are multifaceted. Music can help you become the whole person you want to be. Intersectionofchange: https://intersectionofchange.org/ Todd Marcus: https://toddmarcusjazz.com/ Todd Marcus on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/1VCFQQXicToIzbO3RFmRop Clarinet Ninja: Clarinetninja.com Clarinet Ninja Dojo: https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing My Amazon storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/clarinetninja  

David Gould shares the story behind New Picture, his new bass clarinet recording. We explore how the album took shape, working closely with composers, lessons from his study with David Weber and Philippe Cuper, the transition from Bb to bass clarinet, and practical insights on mouthpieces and reeds. In this episode: • How the concept of New Picture became a finished album • Collaborative approaches that refine tone, articulation, and style • Training influences from David Weber and Philippe Cuper • A clear path for moving from Bb to bass clarinet • Mouthpiece and reed choices that balance color, response, and tuning Keywords: bass clarinet, David Gould, New Picture, clarinet interview, David Weber, Philippe Cuper, living composers, clarinet mouthpiece, clarinet reeds, Bb to bass clarinet, clarinet tips, adult clarinetists, clarinet gear. David Gould: https://www.dgclarinet.com/ New Picture on spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/2zt0sZIIAMhJP0JCD9FZGs New Picture on Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/album/new-picture/1764131379 Clarinet Ninja Dojo: https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Clarinet Ninja Forum (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/6777812678921667 Calendly Link - talk to me free: https://calendly.com/theclarinetninja/30min Study clarinet with me - https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Check out: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ Enjoy our best free content https://www.clarinetninja.com/joinus Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/clarinetninja  #BassClarinet #DavidGould #NewPicture #ClarinetPodcast #Clarinet #NewMusic #ClassicalMusic #ClarinetCommunity #ClarinetGear #ClarinetPractice #Woodwinds #ContemporaryClassical #RecordingLife

Preparing for a clarinet audition can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we explore The Audition Method for Clarinet by Benjamin Baron, a groundbreaking resource designed to help clarinetists succeed in auditions at every level. You’ll learn: 🎵 Why auditions can feel so overwhelming for clarinetists 🎵 How Baron’s Audition Method breaks down preparation into clear, practical steps 🎵 Simple strategies you can start using right away to boost your confidence and performance Whether you’re auditioning for an orchestra, a school program, or simply want to push your clarinet playing further, this episode will give you tools to prepare smarter—not harder. 📘 Featured Book: The Audition Method for Clarinet by Benjamin Baron 🎶 Perfect for: Clarinet students, adult learners, and anyone facing auditions 👉 If you enjoy this episode, please follow the show and leave a review—it helps more clarinetists like you find this resource! #Clarinet #ClarinetPodcast #ClarinetAudition #ClarinetTips   Ben Baron: https://www.benjaminbaron.com/ The Audition Method for clarinet Vol. 1: https://amzn.to/4oEVSoJ The Audition Method for clarinet Vol. 2: https://amzn.to/4oEX5MN James Danderfer:https:www.jamesdanderfer.com/ All Clarinet Ninja links: https:linktr.ee/theclarinetninja

What if two clarinetists learned from the same master teacher, but ended up sounding completely different? In this episode, I talk with my friend of 33 years, Evan Christopher, about our shared roots under clarinetist Gary Bovyer and how we each took that foundational training in radically different directions. We discuss the role of genre, artistic choices, and how musical identity is shaped over time. Whether you're a player, a teacher, or just a curious listener, this conversation will give you insight into how clarinetists build their sound, and why there’s no one right way to go with it. My links:https://linktr.ee/theclarinetninja Evan: https://www.clarinetroad.com/

We often think progress on the clarinet comes from focused effort—hours of practice, carefully chosen reeds, and targeted exercises. But sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs begin somewhere completely unexpected. On June 11, 2003, I had blood clots in my brain. I didn’t know it at the time, but that medical emergency would become one of the most defining moments of both my life and my clarinet playing. In this episode, I share how surviving that event forced me to rethink everything—from how I approached my career to how I understood discomfort, identity, and growth. And I draw direct lines between those lessons and the clarinet: how real improvement often starts with disruption. When you change your voicing, your tonguing reacts. When you focus on articulation, your tone may fall apart—at first. But within that mess is the seed of real transformation. Whether you’re navigating a personal challenge or just wrestling with your air support or articulation, this episode reframes discomfort as a necessary—and powerful—tool for musical growth. Sometimes the biggest changes in your playing start with the things you never asked for. all my stuff: https://linktr.ee/theclarinetninja https://www.jamesdanderfer.com/

Are you ready for the clarinet event of the year? 🎶 Join me for a fun and inspiring conversation with Dr. Cathy Wood, President of the International Clarinet Association (ICA), and Jessica Harrie, ICA Executive Director, as we dive into everything you need to know about ClarinetFest® 2025 in Fort Worth, Texas – July 9–13! We also talk about the special Pre-ClarinetFest Enthusiasts Event happening July 7–8, created just for adult clarinet lovers looking for connection, learning, and community before the convention kicks off. In this episode: ✅ Why ClarinetFest® is a life-changing experience for clarinetists of all levels ✅ What to expect this year in Fort Worth ✅ Behind-the-scenes stories from ICA leadership ✅ How YOU can be part of this unforgettable week ✅ And… how to register before it’s too late! Whether you're a performer, teacher, adult learner, or just love the clarinet — this is your invitation to join us in Texas this summer! 👇 Links + Info Below 👇 🔗 Register for ClarinetFest® 2025: https://clarinet.org/clarinetfest-registration-2025/ 🎧 Learn More About Clarinet Ninja:https://linktr.ee/theclarinetninja 🎶 Check Out James Danderfer: https://www.jamesdanderfer.com/ 📬 Contact Me: TheClarinetNinja@gmail.com

🎧 Ever feel like your progress is slower than it should be? In this inspiring episode, I reflect on my journey recovering from a broken foot and the surprising parallels it shares with learning the clarinet as an adult. Here is me: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ Here is the Dojo: https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing James Danderfer: https://www.jamesdanderfer.com/ 💥 From pain and patience to tiny wins and trust in the process, this story is a reminder that healing—and learning—aren’t linear. Whether you're nursing an injury or nurturing your skills, this episode is here to lift you up and remind you: you’re doing better than you think. 🛠️ Themes we explore: How rest IS progress Why setbacks don’t mean failure Trusting your teachers—and your body Celebrating the tiniest victories Staying motivated through frustration Building strength, one step at a time 🖤 For every adult clarinetist who’s ever wondered, “Is it supposed to be this hard?”—this one’s for you. 👉 Hit play and let’s reframe how we think about learning and growth!

🎶 In Part 2 of our conversation with master craftsman Brad Behn, we dive deep into how he actually creates his legendary clarinet mouthpieces. From material selection to design philosophy and precision hand-finishing, Brad shares insider secrets behind the mouthpieces trusted by top clarinetists worldwide.   Brad Behn: https://www.clarinetmouthpiece.com/ Find me: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ https://linktr.ee/theclarinetninja Aaron Irwin: https://aaronirwin.com/ Aaron Irwin: https://aaronirwin.bandcamp.com/music 🔥 Topics we cover: How Brad Behn designs and makes clarinet mouthpieces What makes a mouthpiece truly special Common myths about clarinet mouthpiece manufacturing 🎧 Whether you're a clarinet enthusiast, professional player, or gear nerd, you’ll love this behind-the-scenes look into the world of premium clarinet craftsmanship. Subscribe to the Clarinet Ninja Podcast for more clarinet inspiration! #Clarinet #BradBehn #ClarinetMouthpiece #ClarinetCraftsmanship #ClarinetNinja #ClarinetGear #WoodwindLife Clarinet Ninja approved products Links are affiliate links - a great (no cost to you) way to support the channel! Mouthpieces: Affordable professional Bb clarinet mouthpiece: Vandoren BD 4 https://amzn.to/3iSEmAc Vandoren 5RV LYRE https://amzn.to/3H1mECA Vandoren M30 https://amzn.to/3J6ExTs Student mouthpiece: Fobes Debut Student debut mouthpiece https://www.clarkwfobes.com/products/debut-clarinet-mouthpiece?variant=39983864774790 Brad Behn Overture mouthpiece https://www.clarinetmouthpiece.com/overture-student-clarinetmouthpiece Vandoren V12 reeds: #3 https://amzn.to/3J6ExTs #3.5 https://amzn.to/3WvJHLD #4 https://amzn.to/3J7LJhY Vandoren Traditional (Blue box) #3 https://amzn.to/3J7LJhY #3.5 https://amzn.to/3ZKTGPY #4 https://amzn.to/3QTusLm Reed cases: Vandoren Hygro case Bb and Eb reeds https://amzn.to/3koZmPo D'Addario Woodwinds Multi-Instrument Reed case https://amzn.to/3XubIVg Rico Reed Guard Bb clarinet https://amzn.to/3J1h06d Brad Behn Reed Cases https://www.clarinetmouthpiece.com/product-page/behn-reed-case Books all clarinetists should have: Baermann third division https://amzn.to/3j2fTsd Kell Staccato studies https://amzn.to/3wkLisZ Jean Jean Vade Mecum https://amzn.to/3J9U6cO Rose 32 etudes https://amzn.to/3J9U6cO Rose 40 etudes https://amzn.to/3GWDwdW Kroepsch 416 progressive studies https://amzn.to/3wj48kb Reed equipment: Ridenour ATG reed finishing system https://amzn.to/3XqF7zu ReedGeek Universal G4 reed tool https://amzn.to/3HnjWZC 400 grit sandpaper https://amzn.to/3H1oof6 600 grit sandpaper https://amzn.to/3j2hiyZ Vandoren V12 Reed Trimmer https://amzn.to/3H7K8r6 Vandoren V21 and 56 Rue Lepic https://amzn.to/3GLkC9I Vandoren Traditional https://amzn.to/3kjMQRi Vandoren Black Master/Black Master Traditional https://amzn.to/3HcErs1 Vandoren White Master https://amzn.to/3kl4hRz Ligatures: Bonade inverted silver plated https://amzn.to/3wlJdNy Vandoren M/O ligature https://amzn.to/3XPYNNg Vandoren Optimum Ligature https://amzn.to/3QYvOof Rovner Mark III https://amzn.to/3J6H7ZE  Links are affiliate links - a great way to support the channel!

🎶 In this episode of the Clarinet Ninja Podcast, we sit down with world-renowned mouthpiece, barrel, bell, reed, and reed case maker Brad Behn. Discover how Brad’s journey from professional clarinetist to master craftsman began — and what inspired him to revolutionize clarinet gear. If you've ever wondered how the best clarinet mouthpieces are made, or how passion and artistry shape great craftsmanship, this episode is for you! Brad Behn: https://www.clarinetmouthpiece.com/ Find me: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ https://linktr.ee/theclarinetninja Aaron Irwin: https://aaronirwin.com/ Aaron Irwin: https://aaronirwin.bandcamp.com/music 🔥 Topics we cover: Brad Behn’s journey from performance to mouthpiece design How top-quality clarinet mouthpieces are born Advice for clarinetists looking to upgrade their setup 🎧 Don't forget to subscribe to the Clarinet Ninja Podcast for more clarinet insights, interviews, and gear deep-dives! #Clarinet #BradBehn #ClarinetMouthpiece #ClarinetPodcast #ClarinetNinja #ClarinetGear #woodwindquintet  Clarinet Ninja approved products Links are affiliate links - a great (no cost to you) way to support the channel! Mouthpieces: Affordable professional Bb clarinet mouthpiece: Vandoren BD 4 https://amzn.to/3iSEmAc Vandoren 5RV LYRE https://amzn.to/3H1mECA Vandoren M30 https://amzn.to/3J6ExTs Student mouthpiece: Fobes Debut Student debut mouthpiece https://www.clarkwfobes.com/products/debut-clarinet-mouthpiece?variant=39983864774790 Brad Behn Overture mouthpiece https://www.clarinetmouthpiece.com/overture-student-clarinetmouthpiece Vandoren V12 reeds: #3 https://amzn.to/3J6ExTs #3.5 https://amzn.to/3WvJHLD #4 https://amzn.to/3J7LJhY Vandoren Traditional (Blue box) #3 https://amzn.to/3J7LJhY #3.5 https://amzn.to/3ZKTGPY #4 https://amzn.to/3QTusLm Reed cases: Vandoren Hygro case Bb and Eb reeds https://amzn.to/3koZmPo D'Addario Woodwinds Multi-Instrument Reed case https://amzn.to/3XubIVg Rico Reed Guard Bb clarinet https://amzn.to/3J1h06d Brad Behn Reed Cases https://www.clarinetmouthpiece.com/product-page/behn-reed-case Books all clarinetists should have: Baermann third division https://amzn.to/3j2fTsd Kell Staccato studies https://amzn.to/3wkLisZ Jean Jean Vade Mecum https://amzn.to/3J9U6cO Rose 32 etudes https://amzn.to/3J9U6cO Rose 40 etudes https://amzn.to/3GWDwdW Kroepsch 416 progressive studies https://amzn.to/3wj48kb Reed equipment: Ridenour ATG reed finishing system https://amzn.to/3XqF7zu ReedGeek Universal G4 reed tool https://amzn.to/3HnjWZC 400 grit sandpaper https://amzn.to/3H1oof6 600 grit sandpaper https://amzn.to/3j2hiyZ Vandoren V12 Reed Trimmer https://amzn.to/3H7K8r6 Vandoren V21 and 56 Rue Lepic https://amzn.to/3GLkC9I Vandoren Traditional https://amzn.to/3kjMQRi Vandoren Black Master/Black Master Traditional https://amzn.to/3HcErs1 Vandoren White Master https://amzn.to/3kl4hRz Ligatures: Bonade inverted silver plated https://amzn.to/3wlJdNy Vandoren M/O ligature https://amzn.to/3XPYNNg Vandoren Optimum Ligature https://amzn.to/3QYvOof Rovner Mark III https://amzn.to/3J6H7ZE  Links are affiliate links - a great way to support the channel!

In this episode, we dive into Writing the Vandoren Wave, a compelling collection of essays by acclaimed clarinetist and educator Mitchell Estrin. This book offers powerful insights into the art of clarinet playing, thoughtful reflections on music education, and a behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential brands in the clarinet world—Vandoren. 🎶 Why this book matters: Writing the Vandoren Wave isn't just for clarinetists—it’s for teachers, students, and anyone passionate about music education. Mitch brings decades of wisdom, humor, and real-world experience to every page. Check me out here: ClarinetNinja.com 🛒 Grab your copy here: 👉 https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mitch-estrin-new-york-philharmonic-university-of/id1806592700?i=1000704401678 📬 Stay in the loop with Vandoren: Get more tips, interviews, and inspiration straight to your inbox by subscribing to The Wave, Vandoren's official newsletter. 👉https://www.dansr.com/vandoren/resources 🎓 About Mitch Estrin Performed with the New York Philharmonic, working under legendary conductors like Leonard Bernstein and Zubin Mehta. Professor of Clarinet at the University of Florida, where he mentors the next generation of clarinetists. Former president of the International Clarinet Association (ICA). A longtime Vandoren artist and passionate advocate for excellence in clarinet education. Whether you're a clarinetist, music educator, or lifelong learner, this conversation and Mitch's book will leave you feeling inspired and reconnected to your musical purpose.

Episode 4: Molly Gebrian – Science-Based Practice Techniques Molly Gebrian returns to the Clarinet Ninja Podcast to dive even deeper into the science of learning. In this episode, she shares specific, research-backed practice techniques to help you improve faster and retain what you learn more effectively. If you're looking to take your clarinet playing to the next level with smarter practice, you won’t want to miss this! Dr. Gebrian's book:  https://amzn.to/4iUUIlA James Danderer's music: https://www.jamesdanderfer.com/ Study clarinet with me - https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Check out: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ Enjoy our best free content https://www.clarinetninja.com/joinus Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/clarinetninja  

Episode 3: Molly Gebrian – Learn Faster, Perform Better In this episode of the Clarinet Ninja Podcast, I’m joined by Molly Gebrian, violist, neuroscientist, and author of Learn Faster, Perform Better. She breaks down how the brain works and shares science-backed practice strategies to help you learn the clarinet more efficiently. If you’ve ever wondered how to practice smarter—not just harder—this episode is for you! James Danderfers music https://www.jamesdanderfer.com/ Dr. Gebrian's book: https://amzn.to/4iUUIlA Study clarinet with me - https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Check out: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ Enjoy our best free content https://www.clarinetninja.com/joinus Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/clarinetninja  

Episode 2: Ricardo Morales – Mastering the Clarinet & Finding the Right Gear In this episode of the Clarinet Ninja Podcast, Ricardo Morales returns to share his insights on teaching and learning the clarinet. We explore effective practice strategies, the mindset of a great musician, and the importance of finding the right clarinet equipment. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, this episode is packed with valuable advice to elevate your playing! James Danderfers music https://www.jamesdanderfer.com/ Dr. Gebrian's book: https://amzn.to/4iUUIlA Study clarinet with me - https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Check out: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ Enjoy our best free content https://www.clarinetninja.com/joinus Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/clarinetninja  

Episode 1: Ricardo Morales – From Prodigy to Principal In the premiere episode of the Clarinet Ninja Podcast, I’m joined by the incredible Ricardo Morales. We dive into his journey to becoming principal clarinet of the MET Opera at just 21 years old, as well as my experience studying with him in the mid-1990s. Along the way, we share laughs, stories, and invaluable insights into the world of clarinet playing. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! James Danderfers music https://www.jamesdanderfer.com/ Dr. Gebrian's book: https://amzn.to/4iUUIlA Study clarinet with me - https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing Check out: https://www.clarinetninja.com/ Enjoy our best free content https://www.clarinetninja.com/joinus Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/clarinetninja