Our Teachers' Review
Essential Elements for Band is the #1 band method for clarinet, used in thousands of schools across the country. It provides a carefully sequenced introduction to the instrument, covering embouchure formation, fingerings, note reading, and rhythm from day one. The included online audio tracks let students hear how each exercise should sound, making home practice far more productive.
Our teachers use this book for both band class and private lesson students because the pacing works well in either setting. By the end of Book 1, students can read music in several key signatures, play with decent tone quality, and perform simple pieces with confidence. It's the most reliable starting point for any new clarinet student.