Klarinet Archive - Posting 000348.txt from 1997/09

From: "Craig E. G. Countryman" <cegc@-----.net>
Subj: Re: Well, here we go again
Date: Mon, 8 Sep 1997 14:00:07 -0400

I think Deborah is rather clear in what she says. What she states, that
many people struggle to get a Bb and A is quite true, especially in the
situation of a youth orchestra. I'm a serious young player, but I am
not the proud owner of an A Clarinet, nor am I getting one for another
couple of years. Luckily, I've gotten by on borrowing for now, but some
people may not even have that opportunity.

Further, I interpret her to say that people can still dedicate
themselves to excellent clarinet playing in spity of finances. That is
especially the limiting factor for younger people. Doubtlessly, that
everyone would have every kind of clarinet if they could, but is it
always feasible? For a professional clarinetist it may be, but it
should be because the is his livelihood. But for those who aren't pros
it isn't always reasonable to expect us to have every kind of clarinet,
especially when it's beyond A and Bb. Those two are no doubt needed,
but beyond that it is to the judgement of the player. Performers aren't
stupid, and I think that if they feel there is a real problem with
transposition vs. finding a C Clarinet they will make every effort to
locate a C, but how much of a difference is there really, especially in
an orchestral setting. In some exposed sections perhaps it is
noticeable, but when the whole ensemble is playing not many of us could
tell.

Is this what you meant Deborah? That's how I read it.

It seems to me that a more conciliatory approach is in order here, as
the replies have been getting a little snippy.

--
Craig Countryman
cegc@-----.net
http://www.geocities.com/Vienna/1711

Quote of the Day:

"For a long time it had seemed to me that life was about to
begin--real life. But there was always some obstacle in the
way, something to be got through first, some unfinished
business, time still to be served, a debt to be paid. Then
life would begin. At last it dawned on me that these
obstacles were my life." -Fr. Alfred D'Souza