Klarinet Archive - Posting 001115.txt from 1998/07

From: <Maestro645@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] Mozart and the right clarinet
Date: Tue, 28 Jul 1998 01:24:11 -0400

Perhaps some times a certain clarinet was picked because of certain sound
characteristics (like using Eb as opposed to Bb). But maybe for a lot of
composers, and perhaps for Mozart too (we'll never really know), they used
mainly the A and Bb (and sometimes C) clarinet for the same sound they had in
mind. The only reason they changed key was so the player would have an easier
part, because back in the early days of clarinet, the keywork was simple, so
doing some accidentals in runs was quite a chore, especially with no alternate
fingerings. For example, if a piece was in D major, and Bb played E major,
it's easier for the A to play in F major. The sound qualities are generally
the same.
Now it's in the late Romantic and Contemporary eras when the clarinet was
improved, so more difficult keys weren't a big deal, and the instrument was
chosen for it's sound. (Like using Eb and Bb and perhaps C for different
sounds.) But even my teacher feels that even today, A and Bb are basically
the same. Sure, there are tonal differences, but they are so slight that you
have to be an expert to really notice a difference, and it's not a difference
that would make you cringe. Sometimes playing an A clarinet makes for a
simpler key to play in, less accidentals to worry about, and less alternate
fingerings to rely on. And less headaches!
Now, I'll stress that what I have mentioned is the opinion I have formed based
on the opinions of my teacher. Does anyone else feel the same way I do?
Chris Hoffman

-------------------------------------------------------------------------