Duet Books

Duet books are a fantastic aid in the self-education of any musician. Even if there's no one else to play with, all you have to do is play one part into a tape recorder, and then play your duet with the tape.

Learning Value from Playing Duets (esp. w/tape)

• They force the student to keep his/her place in the music
• They provide solid practical experience in harmony and counterpoint
• They allow the instrumentalist to produce a 'complete' performance
• They force students to play rhythms more accurately and consistently
• They prepare the lone student for the demands of playing with others

Duets for Younger Students

Of books commonly available, I recommend Yamaha Duets published by Alfred Music. They are not the best that they could be, but they do have commonly known songs with logical harmonies. I usually have students start working in this book after 1 year of study.

Duets for Intermediate Students

These duets are good for students who have played for 2-3 years. Good experiences in both harmony and counterpoint. Very well arranged by William Eisenhauer. (I sure wish they'd publish one for sax!)
Current price is $7.50 each.

Learn To Play Flute Duets (Alfred Music #860)
Learn To Play Clarinet Duets (Alfred Music #861)

Duets for Advanced Students (3 years or more)

Rubank Duet Books: A Classic Best-Buy

These books set the standard for all others. Well selected, well arranged, and physically built for a lifetime of use. Most high school students will find plenty to do in the first volume (easy-medium) but the second volume is also great for more accomplished players.

These books are now publised by Hal Leonard and cost $7.95 each.

Selected Duets for Flute Vol.1 HL04470920
Selected Duets for Flute Vol.2 HL04470930
Selected Duets for Clarinet Vol.1 HL04470940 
Selected Duets for Clarinet Vol.2 HL04470950
Selected Duets for Saxophone Vol.1 HL04470960
Selected Duets for Saxophone Vol.2 HL04470970
78 Duets for Flute & Clarinet Vol.1 HL04471040
78 Duets for Flute & Clarinet Vol.2 HL04471050

NOTE: The 'easy-medium' volumes can be quite challenging for two people--particularly if sight-reading. I recommend always buying and using Vol.1 before going to Vol.2.