Support vs. Volume: The Key to Better Clarinet Playing with David Sapadin
The Clarinet Ninja Podcast: Clarinet Lessons & Practice TipsShow Notes
Welcome to the Clarinet Ninja Podcast!
In this episode, Jay sits down with longtime friend and accomplished clarinetist Dave Sapadin for a deep dive into the journey of becoming your own player. Dave shares his equipment evolution - from Buffet R13 to LeBlanc Opus, Backun MOBAs, and finally to Uebel clarinets - and what he learned about compromise and personal sound along the way.
But this conversation goes far beyond gear. As a highly successful teacher with students earning top honors (including first chair in New York State), Dave reveals his teaching philosophy: creating an open, judgment-free environment where students learn to identify and solve problems independently.
He discusses the crucial difference between support and volume, why embouchure is often blamed incorrectly, and how to help students hear themselves objectively.
Key topics include:
The evolution of clarinet manufacturing and intonation
Learning habits vs. unlearning them
Teaching students to "not accept" mediocrity
How sound changes with distance from the player
The role of air, throat, and fingers (not just embouchure)
Lessons learned from studying with Ricardo Morales and Yehuda Gilad
Why dynamics are about color, not just volume
The impact of the pandemic on student playing Whether you're a student, teacher, or adult amateur, this conversation offers valuable insights into developing as a complete musician.
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