Klarinet Archive - Posting 000596.txt from 1996/10

From: Captain George <bross@-----.NET>
Subj: Re: Bass Clarinet
Date: Thu, 24 Oct 1996 20:57:52 -0400

Aimee Kratofil wrote:
>
> Hi, I am new to the list. I have enjoyed the discussions for the past
> month, and now have a request.
>
> I have a student who is preparing for an audition (honors band) on bass
> clarinet. She is having the same problem I had when I played bass
> (college wind ensemble). Neither of us can play into the high register
> with the rich tone we can get in the lower and clarion register. I feel
> that we should be able to work up to the same quality of sound and range
> that we have on the Bb clarinet. I could be wrong! The piece she is
> preparing has some entrances on B above the staff, and Db above the
> staff. Right now she can't do that, and I don't think I could either. I
> would like to help her. Any suggestions?
>
> Aimee
> freelance clarinetest
> woodwind teacher
Hi I am also new to the list, but I am one of the rare music students
at the college level whose primary instrument is the Bass Clarinet.
Yes, it is possible to get a clear sound on those higher notes, although
very difficult at times.
This is my ninth year on the Bass Clarinet, and the first that I have
been able to play above C# over the staff. The main help for me was the
left hand pointer finger key. Attached to the lower part of it on the
Bass Clarinet is an appendage key. By holding it down while playing the
notes above high C the notes become stable and clear. I hope this will
help a little, it did for me.
Elizabeth