Klarinet Archive - Posting 000958.txt from 1997/09

From: GunnyCC@-----.com
Subj: Re: Transposing
Date: Sat, 20 Sep 1997 23:59:48 -0400

Transposing,
Good subject! The practice of transposing is one that has (at least me)
helped in sightreading. You see, when I transpose, rhythm and notes actually
don't seem hard anymore, it's catching those accidentals. I had an
excellent teacher by the name of Simeon Loring, I considered him a full jedi
in clarinet playing, as well as conducting. He gave me this Bona rhythm book
and said 1-4, practice it. I said that's easy!! He said okay just have it
ready for next week. Oh, and by the way, the 1st one is written for A
clarinet and you are holding a Bb, the 2nd is written for C clar and you are
still holding the A clarinet, the 3rd one is written for Eb and you are
playing a Bb...... I quickly gulped, went home, and practiced like heck!!!!
In the military band I now have no problem grabbing the Eb clarinet part to
play 20 bars of an important part and change back, or playing the oboe part
when there was none. Transposing is a challenge and personally fun. It
forces you to read ahead and imrove your sightreading. I do play the A clar
when I can, and as much as I can, but just in case, I feel good knowing I can
transpose. I recommend that everyone practice it. I first found the
enjoyment of transposing in the orchestra when for some reason we were
missing the violas and I just sat and started playing the part. I will
retire from the military in 5 years and look foward to going back to college
to play till I drop. I'm extremely happy with the experience I've gained
from having to do without a certain instrument and playing their part. So,
to all, practice, practice, practice, and good luck!!!

Carlos Cardo
Musician's Technical Assistant
USMC