A Clarinets

A clarinets are generally not recommended for beginners. Beginners start on the B-flat clarinet, which is more widely taught and remains the primary clarinet used in concert bands, marching bands and most other ensembles.

The primary difference is pitch: The A clarinet is pitched to A rather than to B-flat. The A clarinet has a slightly longer body and is used most often by advanced players in orchestral and chamber-music settings, to improve playability when a piece is in a certain challenging key. The B-flat clarinet is more versatile across genres — concert band, jazz, folk and chamber music — and is the standard instrument for students and non-orchestral settings.

Switching between the two is relatively straightforward for experienced players, and both instruments use the same mouthpiece and reed. The main adjustment is mental: Each instrument transposes differently, so reading the same written note produces a different concert pitch.

Absolutely! Whether you’re an advanced player or just starting out in your school music program, our expert clarinet teachers are ready to help at 250 stores nationwide. Get started today in the nation’s #1 music lessons program.