Klarinet Archive - Posting 001207.txt from 1998/01

From: Composer16 <Composer16@-----.com>
Subj: Re: Eb "Baby" or "Big Kid"
Date: Wed, 28 Jan 1998 14:26:08 -0500

In a message dated 98-01-28 20:40:24 EST, Jason writes:

<< After reading all the posts about the Eb clarinets and reeds, I was
wodnering which Eb you all were talking about.

I have seen a really tall Eb Clarinet, larger than the Bb, and one baby Eb,
just a tad bigger than the Ab. (or so it seems!)

Are there any significant differences between the tall Eb and baby Eb? If
so, what are they, and which one is the Eb Clarinet part in most orchestral
scores written for?

If you have any info, please don't hesitate. Thanks! (I'm merely curious.
Not looking into buying an Eb, but wouldn't mind trying one :-) )

Jason Hsien >>

The baby Eb is the soprano Eb, which is what is used in orchestral scores.
The big-kid Eb is an Alto clarinet, used more in band music, and woodwind
ensembles (although I've seen a few orchestral scores call for an Alto, but
not many!)
The soprano Eb sounds a minor third above the written note. For example if
you play a C on the soprano Eb (or eefer, the nickname) it plays an Eb. On
the Alto, if you play a C it sounds a minor 6th below to Eb. Does that make
sense now?
Hope this helps,
Chris Hoffman