Klarinet Archive - Posting 001114.txt from 1997/11

From: DGross1226@-----.com
Subj: "All-State?" Conductors
Date: Sat, 29 Nov 1997 23:22:52 -0500

In a message dated 97-11-29 12:59:14 EST, Craig Countryman writes:

<< It was funny, because we performed it at All-State last year, and the
conductor was always making fun of the poor contra-bass player. He went on
about how people would be murmurring "what the heck is that thing..." It had
to be the funniest thing I had ever seen! It was also my first introduction
to that instrument, and hats off to anyone who can play that. Bass Clarinet
is tough enough for me! >>

Craig,

As one who has played a lot of contrabass clarinet with two rather fine wind
ensembles over the past seven years, it appears as though the illustrious
conductor of the (I'm assuming) Florida all-state band seems to have been
absent when tact, diplomacy and common decency were being taught. I have had
the privilege of playing under two conductors in the greater Los Angeles area
who fully appreciate the use, timbre, musical effect, and impact of the low
clarinets -- especially the pedal clarinets.

I see nothing "funny" about berating any student musician, especially in
front of his or her peers. The next time you laugh, please consider the
feelings of the person who is the butt of the "joke."

Don Gross
La Canada, California