Finger Fitness Études for Clarinet & Auxiliary Clarinets: Book 3

Kristen Denny-Chambers presents Book 3 of her Finger Fitness Études, offering a collection which calls for larger intervals, a few mixed and odd meters, some modern techniques, and more expressive flexibility. 

The previous books are available here: Book 1 and Book 2

The edition consists of 45 études for any clarinet, and 24 additional études selected and revised for utilizing the keys unique to the low C bass clarinet. Each étude is one page in length (a handful are two pages), and is preceded by a pair of short finger drills which correspond to the technical demands of the study.  The initial 45 études are split into two sections, focusing respectively on internals of sixths and sevenths.  The 24 bass clarinet études require a low C instrument; they use the same key and time signatures as their original versions, but take advantage of the much lower range enjoyed by the lower pitched clarinets.

The composer writes that the studies are good for "...advancing pre-college students, undergraduate and graduate level music students, devoted clarinet enthusiasts and professionals."

The range makes frequent use of the altissimo register, and even includes some key signatures with 6 or 7 sharps/flats (see quick facts below). 

Denny-Chambers' writing covers a wide range of engaging moods, and includes three jazz-influenced tunes, one samba, and one klezmer piece. 

From the composer: 'Similar to previous books, you will find several light-hearted but challenging études in compound meter, a variety of waltzes and minuets, childhood and bird-themed music, a theme and variations piece, tunes that inspire fearlessness, many deep and reflective melodies, and plenty of others that will help you musically connect with distinctive characters and imagery. [...] For those new to jazz and klezmer, have no fear! Jazz and klezmer tips are included in a little mini-lesson in the appendix. Additionally, the modern techniques that are featured have their own "how to" pages.'

Quick facts
Length: average exercise length = 1 page
Range: highest note = written G6 (and optional G♯6)
Key signature: no ♯/♭, 1♯, 2♯, 3♯, 4♯, 5♯, 7♯, 1♭, 2♭, 3♭, 5♭, 6♭, 7♭
Time signature: 2/2, 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 6/4, 8/4, 3/8, 5/8, 6/8, 7/8, 9/8, 12/8,
Extended techniques: air sound (1 étude), glissando

Three appendices contain finger drill reviews, low C (bass) clarinet scale studies, and tips for jazz and klezmer styles.  The jazz and klezmer études each include versions with and without ornamentation.