For any serious clarinet player, this book is an absolute must. It covers everything you could possibly need to know, and you know you can trust the author. It is clearly written, contains several explanatory photographs and illustrations, and maintains the personal anecdotal style of Brymer throughout. Each chapter focuses on a different element of the instrument, from its history to how to tackle core works with panache. Particularly useful are the chapters on how to do home repairs, fingering tricks and improving reeds ; and best of all he includes a comprehensive repertoire list complete with commentaries on the level and appropriateness of available clarinet works of all sizes. Want to find out a « charming, amusing and original » wind quintet ? Now you know where to find one. Covering history, science, engineering, performance, pedagogy and repertoire, you can be absolutely 100% sure that a more complete book for the clarinet player does not exist. It is the clarinettist's bible.