Beginners question, re Clarinet Jazz grade 1. As a self taught adult beginner I don't have a teacher to guide me on this...

The syllabus requires the performance of one piece from each of the three sections of the tune book: blues & roots, standards and contemporary.

That's fine - but I'm wondering if it's important to make a selection that is varied overall? Does it matter if your best (and therefore chosen) pieces are all of a similar tempo? Or is it better to choose a varied selection, in style and or tempo, even if they may not be individual 'favourites'?

Mike A.

Choose the ones you like. At grade 1 especially, it's important you really enjoy what you're playing.

I agree with David. Each piece is marked on its own merits in any case, so go ahead and play the ones you most enjoy!

Thanks for the info - that's good news

Mike A.

I'm sure at least 2 of my clarinet jazz grade 1 pieces were in the same key, so be careful to make your solo's different. Get your solos to fit the style of the piece as well as what you are feeling at the time! They are great fun.

I'd have to disagree slightly - play the ones you 'like', yes, but I think many examiners would be looking for a 'range'. Teachers will often have to 'force' you to play pieces which may not be your favourites to get this spread.
The unfortunate reality of exams is that you will be examined on things you don't like/aren't very good at.
As a solo performer inyour own right, you of course have the freedom to choose the styles you want to play!
See how you go - if you're really not comfortable with branching out too far, play the pieces you like and are therefore 'good' at - it may outweigh any niggles the examiner might have, particularly at this grade level.

Cheers, Seals