Klarinet Archive - Posting 000346.txt from 1997/01

From: "Joie Canada , Jcanada713@-----.com>
Subj: Re: Hello out there
Date: Wed, 22 Jan 1997 08:07:59 -0500

Hi Newbie! and Welcome,

I had not gotten the idea that clarinet was a male dominated playing field--I
think it's nearer to 50-50 than most instruments at least in most places.
Our band is about that and so are all the bands I have played in. Of
course, in jazz, there are far fewer women on any instrument except piano
than men although I play in a Dixieland band (the only female except the
vocalist) and I gather I'm a bit of a rarity there. But I like it, and I
ain't that bad, so a few wierd looks don't throw me. Fortunately, I am built
so I look ok in a suit and bow tie, so I don't have to come up with an
alternative. The vocalist wears 30-s vintage evening gowns, a bit frayed at
the edges which goes well with the look for gigs. I once had to play banjo
in a pit orchestra for Three Penny Opera and we had to dress formally--truly
an odd experience to play the banjo in a long black gown! I draw the line at
lederhosen for German Band--but so does the rest of the German Band! We
aren't young enough to have cute knees any more! And in orchestras, I find
about 50-50 again, so don't feel odd-womaned-out if you are surrounded by
guys...I've heard of male flute players who revel in the opportunities!

Joie