The clarinet has a long and rich history as a solo, orchestral and chamber musical instrument. In this broad-ranging account Eric Hoeprich, a performer, teacher and expert on historical clarinets, explores its development, repertoire and performance history. Looking at the earliest antecedents of the clarinet, as well as related instruments such as the chalumeau, basset horn, alto clarinet and bass clarinet, Hoeprich explains the use and development of the instrument in the Baroque age. The period from the late 1700s to Beethoven's early years is shown to have fostered ever-wider distribution and use of the instrument, with the creation of a repertoire of increasing richness. The first half of the nineteenth century, seen as a golden age for the clarinet, brought innovation in construction and great virtuosity in performance, while the following century and a half produced a surge in new works for the instrument from many composers. The author also devotes a chapter to the role of the clarinet in bands, folk music and jazz. Throughout his authoritative treatment of the instrument, Eric Hoeprich brings to his book the fruits of his long experience as performer and teacher, and also as collector, maker and restorer of clarinets. This will be the definitive volume on the instrument.