Abstract
The purpose of this study is to create a guide for American clarinet students who wish to study in French music institutions. No thesis, articles or journals have been written to assist American clarinetists who have the desire to pursue studies in France. Therefore, even though France and its musical culture with the Paris Conservatoire are attractive, few American clarinet students actually take the step to study in France.
This research paper provides historical knowledge about music conservatoires in France, a deep understanding of the French music education system, detailed information on each of the different types of music conservatoires and music schools available in France, and finally, all the tools needed to get accepted into a music program in France, ranging from repertoire to paperwork to complete before moving. The guide is also supported by interviews of American clarinetists who have successfully studied in France, French clarinetists who have studied in the United States, and clarinetists who are currently or have recently studied at the Conservatoire Supérieur de Musique de Paris.
Intended to serve as a guide for clarinet students, parents, and teachers in the United States, this research paper added to a focused preparation and tons of determination, will make the dream of studying clarinet in a French music institution attainable.