Klarinet Archive - Posting 000870.txt from 1997/03

From: "Schoendorf, Kenneth C." <kxs2@-----.GOV>
Subj: Basic transposition question
Date: Wed, 26 Mar 1997 11:18:00 -0500

I have a basic question regarding transposing from C parts to B-flat or A
clarinets. Are there technical or aesthetic reasons to prefer one clarinet
over the other when reading a part written in C (I have parts for clarinet
written in C as well as occasional oboe parts (due to personnel
limitations))? In my limited experience, some parts seem to play easier on
the B-flat (e.g., pieces in concert C) while others may be easier on the A
(e.g., some pieces in concert D). At this tender stage of development, I'd
like to start by concentrating on learning to transpose to one instrument
well. So, what advice do you have regarding the merits of starting with the
B-flat as opposed to the A, or vice-versa?

Thanks for your assistance,

----Ken