This is a revised and enlarged edition of a book which first appeared in 1954 and has enjoyed the continued approval of scholars both for its readable style and for the mine of information it contains.

There are sections on the instrument's components and mechanism; its characteristics; problems of pitch and intonation; its history; high-pitched clarinets and the clarinet d'amour, the basset-horn, tenor clarinets, and contrabass clarinets. The techniques of famous virtuosi are examined and full account is taken of the achievements of famous makers - the Denners, the Alberts, and L.-A. Buffet among them. The repertoire of the instrument brings in the pioneer work of Carl Stamitz and Mozart in the eighteenth century; and advances made by modern and contemporary composers.

In his revision Mr Bate notes the extension of student interest in the history and development of musical instruments and the fundamental work of instrument-makers, especially with larger clarinets. He has amplified the descriptive matter and added much revised material on acoustics. There is also a new section on experimental and esoteric instruments, of great interest to specialists.

In addition to a full Bibliography, appendixes of Tutors and Music for the Clarinet and a List of Makers are provided.