Klarinet Archive - Posting 000643.txt from 1997/02

From: Don Gross <DGross1226@-----.com>
Subj: Challenging Bass Clarinet Parts
Date: Tue, 18 Feb 1997 23:04:15 -0500

In a message dated 97-02-18 11:39:12 EST, Scott Morrow wrote:

<< In a large band arrangement, I think the arrangers have more instruments
than they know what to do with; thus, the parts are usually boring and
uninspired. >>

The key word here is arrangers. If the music selected is "composed" and not
"arranged" for band or wind ensemble, not only are the bass clarinet parts
challenging, but so are the contrabass clarinet parts. One recent example
that comes to mind is Vaclav Nelhybel's "Prelude and Fugue" which the
Caltech/Occidental College (California) Concert Band just performed last
Friday night. I saw more than just a few beads of perspiration from the two
bass clarinet players sitting next to me as they ran thru about 40 measures
of 1/16th notes at about 120. The contrabass part is not quite as difficult
in that it doubles for only the last 10 measures or so of the Vivace.

The program also included the "Introduction and Rondo" for clarinet choir by
Gordon Jacob. Same comments apply as above. The key to success is to
educate your band/wind ensemble conductor as to the musical value of the low
clarinets -- especially the contrabass horns. Once they've heard the unique
timbre of the sound, they're usually hooked.

Don Gross
La Canada, California

p.s. Also note Gunther Schuller's "Meditation" which has parts for TWO
contrabass clarinets, or orginal works for wind ensemble by the Pacific
Symphony's composer-in-residence, Frank Tichelli.
>>