The Clarinet Ninja Podcast
The Clarinet Ninja Podcast
Podcast Description
The Clarinet Ninja Podcast brings you insightful interviews with clarinet players and practical lessons to help musicians of all ages and skill levels learn, grow, and celebrate the clarinet. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned pro, join us for expert tips, inspiring stories, and all things clarinet!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast covers a range of topics related to clarinet playing, including science-based practice techniques, personal growth stories from prominent clarinetists, and practical discussions about equipment. For example, episodes delve into strategies for practicing smarter with insights from experts like Dr. Molly Gebrian, and interviews explore the professional journeys of clarinetists such as Ricardo Morales.
The Clarinet Ninja Podcast teaches adult clarinet players how to learn faster and play better using science-based practice methods. Host Jay Hassler brings you interviews with world-class clarinetists like Ricardo Morales (Philadelphia Orchestra), Dr. Molly Gebrian (neuroscientist and author), and master craftsmen like Brad Behn. Whether you’re just starting clarinet, returning after years away, or looking to refine your skills, you’ll get proven practice techniques, equipment advice, and inspiration from the pros. Perfect for adult learners who want to improve their clarinet playing efficiently.
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.
Clarinet Ninja Dojo: https://www.clarinetninja.com/dojo-landing
Clarinet Ninja Forum (Facebook): https://www.facebook.com/groups/6777812678921667
Calendly Link – talk to me free: https://calendly.com/theclarinetninja/30min
Disclaimer
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