Where the Music Begins
Discover your potential with clarinet lessons designed just for you. No matter your age or experience, our skilled teachers guide you to achieve your goals and develop your unique sound. Begin your musical adventure today!
Why Choose Long & McQuade for Clarinet Lessons?
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Experienced instructors
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Modern studios with quality instruments
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A wide range of schedule times (daytime, evenings, weekends)
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Private, one-on-one clarinet lessons
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Trusted Across Canada for Music Education Excellence
Whether you’re preparing for Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exams or learning for enjoyment, our clarinet programs adapt to your pace and interests.
Any Age | Any Stage | Any Style
Ages 13-18
Clarinet Lessons for Teens
What Teens Can Expect:
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Personalized music selections—classical, jazz, pop, or contemporary
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RCM exam preparation (optional)
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Opportunities for improvisation and performing
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Guidance for school bands, ensembles, and auditions
Benefits for Teens:
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Develop creative independence
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Build self-confidence and discipline through practice
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Reduce stress and boost well-being through music
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Gain a lifelong skill with personal and academic benefits
Ages 19+
Clarinet Lessons For Adults
A Flexible, Enjoyable Approach to Learning
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A wide range of schedule times (daytime, evenings, weekends)
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Play the music you love—classical, jazz, pop, film scores, and more
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No exams required unless you choose to take them
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Focus on enjoyment, personal growth, or relaxation
Benefits for Adult Students:
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Reduce stress and support mental wellness
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Improve coordination, memory, and creativity
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Develop a rewarding hobby at your own pace
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No pressure—just steady progress and enjoyment
Learn Clarinet: What Should I Expect to Learn?
Beginner
& Intermediate
Advanced
& Royal Conservatory
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Proper embouchure (mouth position), breath support, and tone production
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Hand and finger placement for smooth note transitions
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Keeping steady time with a metronome
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Reading beginner clarinet notation and rhythms
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Playing scales, simple melodies, and school band repertoire
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Developing articulation skills such as tonguing and slurring
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Learning dynamics, accents, and expressive phrasing
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Playing along with songs and in a group or band setting
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Expanding range, tone quality, and breath control
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Advanced finger technique and articulation speed
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Styles such as classical, jazz, chamber, and contemporary clarinet music
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Improvisation, ornamentation, and interpretation skills
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Complex rhythms, extended techniques, and ensemble playing
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Solo performance preparation and stage confidence
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Reed care, clarinet maintenance, and tone adjustment
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Audition, recital, and ensemble preparation—from practice to performance
Learning the clarinet is a lifelong journey. The topics above show a typical path for many students, but your lessons will be personalized to your goals—whether that’s playing casually, joining a school or community band, or pursuing advanced performance opportunities. With private clarinet lessons you’ll have the guidance and foundation to keep growing at every stage.
“I’ve Always Wanted to Learn, But I Don’t Have a Clarinet”
This is one of the most common concerns we hear—and the good news is: you don’t need to own a clarinet to get started.
At Long & McQuade, we make it easy for beginners to begin lessons without the pressure of buying an instrument right away. We offer affordable clarinet rentals, and our lesson studios are fully equipped so students can learn and practice comfortably from day one.
Understanding the Different Types of Clarinets
If you’re thinking about getting your own instrument, here’s a quick breakdown of the main types of instruments that you can begin considering.
B♭ Clarinet
The B♭ clarinet is the most common and versatile member of the clarinet family, known for its warm, expressive tone. Widely used in school bands, orchestras, and jazz, it’s the ideal starting point for beginners and a foundational instrument for advancing players.
Bass Clarinet
The bass clarinet is larger and lower in pitch than the standard B♭ clarinet, producing a rich, deep tone. It’s often used in concert bands, orchestras, and jazz ensembles, offering unique character and expanded range for advancing students and performers.
Key Differences and Qualities
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Standard size and range, ideal for melodic playing in bands, orchestras, and jazz.
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Lightweight and easy to handle, making it perfect for younger players and beginners to clarinet.
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Versatile tone suitable for a wide variety of musical styles and skill levels.
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Larger body and lower pitch, producing a rich, deep, and resonant sound.
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Extended range and unique voice, often used for harmony or bass lines in ensembles.
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Popular among advancing students looking to explore more specialized repertoire.
Which Clarinet is Best for Me?
Student B♭ Clarinets
Student B♭ Clarinets are perfect for beginners, offering easy playability and durable construction to support strong foundational learning.
Intermediate B♭ Clarinets
Intermediate/Professional B♭ Clarinets are ideal for advancing players who want improved tone, response, and keywork for
Bass Clarinets
Bass Clarinets are suited for players seeking a rich, deep tone and extended range, making them ideal for ensemble work and advanced repertoire.
"How do I Pick the Right Clarinet Teacher?"
Choosing the right clarinet teacher is a key step in your musical journey. At Long & McQuade, we believe the best teacher is not only skilled but also the right fit for your personality, goals, and learning style.
Whether you’re a parent seeking a patient and encouraging instructor for your child, a teen looking for guidance in jazz or classical styles, or an adult wanting a supportive, no-pressure environment—we’ll help you find the perfect match.
Getting Started With Clarinet Books
If you’re beginning clarinet lessons, or if you’ve just picked up a clarinet and want to explore a little on your own before starting, these books are a great place to begin. They provide a solid foundation for learning and will help you take your first steps on your clarinet journey.
Recommendations for Beginner Students
Hal
Leonard
Do-It-Yourself Clarinet: The Best Step-by-Step Guide to Start Playing - Anderson/Andrus
Hal
Leonard
101 Simple Songs - Clarinet - Book
Frederick Harris Music Company
Clarinet Etudes Levels Preparatory-4, 2014 Edition - Book
Wise Music Group
Clarinet Fingering Chart
Recommendations for Advanced Students
Hal Leonard
101 Disney Songs - Clarinet - Book
G. Schirmer Inc.
Solos for the Clarinet Player - Christmann - Clarinet/Piano - Book
Hal Leonard
101 Classical Themes for Clarinet - Book
Hal Leonard
The Big Book of Clarinet Songs - Clarinet - Book
👉 If you’re considering starting lessons, it’s usually best to hold off on buying books until after your first class. Your teacher will help determine the best learning path for your goals and interests, ensuring you get the right materials from the start.
"How Can I be Successful in My Clarinet Lessons?"
It’s not talent. It’s consistency.
Whether you’re 4 or 45, the students who grow the most on their clarinet journey are the ones who practice regularly—even just a few minutes a day can make a big difference.
"Should I take any Exams or Tests?"
It really depends on your goals, and how you learn best.
Exams and tests are always optional for music students. For students who want to set structured goals and earn recognition for their progress, music exams can be a great option. In Canada, there are a few main exam boards that percussion and drum students may participate in:
Most Popular Exam Options in Canada
RCM (Royal Conservatory of Music)
The RCM is one of the most widely recognized music education systems in Canada. Their clarinet exams cover technique, repertoire, sight-reading, ear training, and overall musicianship. Students progress through graded levels, earning certificates that are respected across the country and often helpful for school credits or university applications.
ABRSM (Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music)
ABRSM is a UK-based program also offered in Canada. Like the RCM, it provides structured grade levels and clarinet exams with a strong focus on musicality, listening skills, and well-rounded development. Many students choose ABRSM for its international recognition and emphasis on expressive playing.
Trinity College London
Trinity is another UK-based exam board available worldwide, including in Canada. Trinity’s clarinet exams are known for their flexibility, allowing students to choose between traditional repertoire and more contemporary options. Along with technical studies, students can demonstrate improvisation, interpretation, and performance skills in a way that reflects their personal interests.
Why Take Exams?
🎓 Exams can help students stay motivated, track progress, and gain a sense of achievement. They also provide valuable credentials that can be used for school credit or future opportunities in music.
👉 Not every student needs to pursue exams — some prefer to play for fun or focus on performing. But for those who enjoy having milestones to work toward, exams are an excellent way to celebrate progress and build confidence.
