A Review of Josh Goo’s The Next Generation Clarinet Method
Quickstartclarinet.com, 2020.
by Dr. Madelyn Moore, Assistant Professor of Clarinet, New Mexico State University
Young students often find themselves practicing technical exercises without a clear explanation of what the goal of that exercise may be. They may be learning notes and rhythms, but not
focusing on the deeper purposes for development within the exercise. Josh Goo endeavors to rectify this with his new book, The Next Generation Clarinet Method. This book can be
purchased from Goo’s website, www.quickstartclarinet.com, and is available as a downloadable PDF in either a printer-friendly version or a larger print version.
On his website, Goo discusses his dedication to fundamentals and belief that good, steady work with the correct focus will produce results, regardless of talent. His goal with this book is to
provide students with a resource that will give them that focus and motivation, even if they do not have a private teacher. The book includes links to instructional videos, timelines designed
to help students structure their practice time, and links to additional resources. While some of the information for beginning clarinetists is lacking, or very brief, the fundamentals are sound
and would serve as a good reminder for an intermediate player.
Furthermore, the warm-ups within the book are well-structured and might be a welcome addition to the routine of many players. Indeed, Goo frequently posts videos of his warm-up on
social media, something that may engage students as well. In this method book, a lot of attention is paid to note starts and tone quality, which are important aspects of playing that
intermediate clarinetists often ignore. The book also includes some etudes that would be helpful to an intermediate player.
One of the most compelling benefits of purchasing this book is that the consumer receives lifetime access to all updates to the book. On the website, Goo explains that he will treat it
as a “living document,” adding material to it periodically. This opens a door for clarinetists to have new warm-up and practice material indefinitely, which is quite an exciting prospect.
