While one would argue that clarinet requires more skill for each instrument's respective pieces in an ensemble, even playing trombone in Benny Goodman's band would have required 10 - 20 years of
serious practice and experience. Some of these "rock greats" were barely alive that long when they played. Not to mention that Benny Goodman and his solos, specifically, require a much higher level of playing. With the songs you hear today, anyone can pick up a guitar, get the tabs, and learn to play it in a week. Clarinetists that can even come close to Benny Goodman today are
very rare. You can't tell me that these Metallica, Pink Floyd, and whomever else can even hold a candle to Benny Goodman's talent.
By the way, are you really from Fall River? That's only fifteen minutes away.
I go to Prince Andrew High.