Fall 2007: UAA offers clarinet classes for 6th graders

Classes feature low tuition, expert instruction for young musicians

Beginning in October, University of Alaska Anchorage professor Mark Wolbers will once again offer a year-long series of one-hour classes aimed at helping 6th-grade beginning clarinet students master the fundamentals of playing their instrument. The goal of the class is to support the students' progress in school music programs and future private instruction.

Tuition for the fall semester classes is a low $25.  To keep the cost as low as possible, Professor Wolbers, for the 5th year in a row, will donate his time and has two of his University clarinet students mentor with him in teaching the class.

"The clarinet is one of the most important instruments in the band," Professor Wolbers explained.  "Our goal is to help beginning clarinet students master tone production and to set good playing habits for the future.  In addition, we believe it is extremely important for students to hear a professional player model their instrument on a regular basis."

The clarinet class will meet on Fridays at 4:30 p.m. in UAA Fine Arts Building, room 124 beginning on October 5.  Parents are welcome and encouraged to attend, and parking is free.  Students may pre-register or register at the door before the first class meeting.  Because enrollment is limited, pre-registration is encouraged.  The fall semester classes will be followed by another 10 weeks of instruction scheduled to begin in January 2008.  

Professor Wolbers holds a doctorate in clarinet performance from the University of Michigan. Now in his 16th year at UAA, he serves as conductor of the University Wind Ensemble and division head for wind and percussion studies.  

For more information or to obtain a registration application, please contact Dr. Wolbers at (907) 786-1508 or afmew@uaa.alaska.edu.