Deconstructed Clarinet

Welcome to

Clarinet Lessons Belfast

I'm Claire McDaniel, and my aim is to challenge and encourage you to bring out your very best, while still keeping the joy of playing the clarinet at the heart of every session. Whether it’s mastering tricky passages or preparing for a performance, I’ll ensure every lesson is both productive and inspiring.


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Claire McDaniel - Professional Clarinet Teacher

Clarinet Lessons Belfast Teacher - Claire McDaniel
My Mission

Lessons Tailored To You

I have a passion for music and I want to share the love of music with others. I have 12 year's of experience teaching children and adults a like, who have felt the amazing feeling of being able to make their first sound on the instrument! I offer lessons for new learners who want to try something new or for those who have already learnt in past and would like to take it up again. I can lead you through the exams at your own pace. A flexible lesson schedule Is possible tò suit your needs.

Prices

£22 per 1/2 hour

Clarinet Teacher

Claire McDaniel

Location

Holywood BT18, UK
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Get in touch to find out more.

Find out more about my clarinet lessons, as well as book your first clarinet lesson.

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(Average score: 5/5)
Home & Instrument Page Enquiry
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Student Advice

Lessons for All Levels

For beginners, I focus on building a strong foundation. We’ll cover the basics of playing, including proper posture, breath control, and finger placement. I aim to make these early steps enjoyable and stress-free because I know how important it is to start with a solid understanding of the instrument.

If you’re an intermediate player, I can help you refine your sound and technique. We’ll tackle more challenging pieces, explore dynamics and expression, and work on overcoming any hurdles you might be facing. For advanced players, lessons are designed to push your abilities to the next level. Whether you’re preparing for auditions, competitions, or simply working toward personal goals, I’ll help you hone your artistry and musical interpretation.

Prices:


£22 per 1/2 hour
£38 per 3/4 hour

Lessons are weekly, fortnightly or as suits you.

Advice for New Students

Belfast Music Lessons

Welcome! If you’re considering clarinet lessons in Belfast, I’m here to help you feel confident and excited about your musical journey. Whether you’re a beginner just picking up your clarinet or someone looking to refine your skills, I offer lessons tailored to meet your needs, abilities, and goals. I firmly believe that learning music should be fun, creative, and rewarding, and I’m dedicated to helping students of all levels achieve their potential.

One-to-One learning

For those who prefer a focused, personalised experience, one-to-one lessons are ideal for building a solid foundation in clarinet and expanding your musical knowledge. If you enjoy learning with others, I can point you to friendly group lessons which foster collaboration and creativity in a supportive atmosphere. These sessions are perfect for beginners and more experienced players alike.

What You’ll Learn

My Clarinet lessons don’t just focus on playing the clarinet—I aim to nurture well-rounded musicians. We explore music theory, develop practical skills, and even discuss performance techniques to help you feel confident in any setting. I also encourage students to explore other areas of music they’re passionate about, from playing in an orchestra to musical theatre and beyond. Many of my students also study flute, recorder, ukulele, piano, and even singing or guitar in parallel with their clarinet lessons.

Preparing for Exams and Performances

For those interested in formal recognition, I can help you prepare for music exams, whether they’re part of a graded curriculum or a school program in Northern Ireland. My teaching is designed to meet professional standards while ensuring that the process remains enjoyable and stress-free. Together, we’ll set achievable goals so that you can progress at a pace that feels comfortable.

Why Choose My Lessons?

With years of experience as a professional musician and an excellent teacher, I pride myself on creating an encouraging environment for students of all ages, including children and adults. I’m passionate about helping my students gain confidence, develop their musical skills, and express themselves creatively. Whether you’re playing classical pieces, exploring modern tunes, or preparing for your first music exam, my lessons are designed to inspire a lifelong love of music.

If you’re ready to begin your musical adventure with the clarinet—or even expand into other instruments like flute, piano, or guitar—get in touch today! I’d love to help you achieve your musical goals right here in Belfast or online.

Apply Music Theory to Clarinet

When learning the clarinet, music theory becomes an incredibly valuable tool. It’s not just about reading notes—it’s about understanding the structure behind the music you play. I believe that by integrating music theory into clarinet practice, you can develop a deeper connection with your instrument and improve your overall musicianship.

For example, knowing scales and chord progressions helps you recognise patterns, making it easier to play fluently and even improvise. If you’ve taken music lessons or studied other instruments like the piano, flute, or even guitar, you might already have a foundation in theory that we can build on together. I tailor each lesson to suit your current level, whether you're a beginner or experienced player seeking to refine your skills.

Applying Music Theory to Performance

One of the ways I incorporate music theory into teaching the clarinet is by focusing on how theory relates to performance. Understanding keys, dynamics, and tempo can elevate the way you interpret a piece. Whether it's practising a classical study or experimenting with modern styles, I’ll guide you to adapt your technique and expression for a wider range of music. This approach works across instruments—be it singing, playing the recorder, or any other area of music.

I’m dedicated to delivering engaging and practical lessons. Music theory shouldn’t feel daunting—it’s an exciting tool that opens up creative possibilities. If you’re ready to bring your clarinet playing (or your skills on other instruments) to the next level, I’d love to help!

Learn All Styles on the Clarinet

Classical Clarinet

The clarinet has a rich history in classical music, and I love exploring this timeless genre with my students. From Mozart’s famous Clarinet Concerto to Brahms’ intricate works, there’s so much depth and beauty in classical repertoire. Learning classical clarinet helps refine your tone, technique, and musicality, providing skills that are unmatched in their versatility. Whether you're new to the instrument or transitioning from other music lessons like piano or flute, classical clarinet can lay a solid foundation for your musical growth.

Jazz and Swing

If you’re drawn to the energetic and soulful sounds of jazz and swing, the clarinet is your perfect companion. From Benny Goodman to Sidney Bechet, the clarinet plays a vital role in these genres. Jazz encourages creativity and improvisation, allowing you to develop a personal style that’s truly unique. It’s a fantastic option if you're switching from guitar lessons or singing and want a fresh outlet for your musical expression.

Folk and World Music

The clarinet is also a star in folk and world music, and I love introducing my students to these diverse and exciting styles. From Klezmer music to Eastern European and Middle Eastern traditions, the clarinet's versatility shines in these genres, offering unique rhythms and scales to master. Whether you're here in Belfast or learning online, folk and world music provide a fun way to explore the instrument’s broader cultural significance, especially if you already have experience with other instruments.

Pop and Contemporary

For those who love current hits and pop tunes, the clarinet is a fantastic addition to modern arrangements. Imagine playing clarinet alongside piano skills or even in a band where others are singing or playing guitar! This genre allows you to experiment with upbeat rhythms and expressive melodies, bringing a fresh, contemporary feel to your music. If you're looking to bring something special and unique to your musical repertoire, pop clarinet lessons might be exactly what you're after.

No matter the style or genre you’re interested in, At Clarinet Lessons Belfast, I tailor lessons to your goals and musical preferences. Whether you’re picking up the clarinet for the first time or building on skills from other one-on-one music lessons, I’m here to help make your learning experience engaging, effective, and tailored to your interests. Let's explore the endless possibilities of the clarinet together!

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Clarinet Lessons Belfast Teacher - Claire McDaniel
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I can help you to

Whether you are picking up the clarinet for the first time or returning to the instrument after years away, I’m here to guide you on your musical journey. I believe everyone, regardless of experience, has the potential to create beautiful music. My lessons are tailored to your unique goals and abilities, ensuring you feel comfortable and confident as you learn at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

For beginners, practicing the clarinet 20-30 minutes a day is ideal. As you advance, aim for 45 minutes to an hour daily.

The best age to start clarinet lessons is around 9 to 11 years old, when children have the necessary lung capacity and hand size to play the instrument comfortably.

Yes, clarinet lessons are worth it for adults. They provide a fun and rewarding way to learn a new skill, improve mental focus, and enjoy music. If you want to buy your own instrument then please do check out Matchettes Music located at 38 Wellington Pl, Belfast BT1 6GF.

Taking clarinet lessons once a week is common and effective for consistent progress, though frequency can be adjusted based on individual goals.

Yes, it’s possible to learn clarinet on your own using online resources, but working with a teacher provides valuable guidance and feedback for faster improvement.

Still have questions? Get in touch

Holywood BT18, UK
Full teaching address will be provided upon first lesson booking.

Location

Holywood BT18, UK
Teacher
Claire McDaniel
Ready to start?

Find out more about my clarinet lessons and how to book your first session.

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