Klarinet Archive - Posting 001227.txt from 1998/07

From: Ed Maurey <edsshop@-----.ca>
Subj: [kl] Mozart's choice of instruments
Date: Tue, 28 Jul 1998 22:43:14 -0400

I have never heard that Stadler possessed a basset clarinet in Bb. The
quintet, the obligato in "Tito", and the concerto were all for basset
clarinet in A. I contend Mozart had little choice but to write his
concerto for basset clarinet in A. It was the only game in town!

Also, I have read that Stadler loved the sounds of the lower clarinets
and was a bit of a chalumeau register expert. [ He usually played second
to his brother for that reason.] His involvement in the then new basset
clarinet seems natural. He would have lobbied strongly for the use of
his new, improved clarinet. I'm sure he wowed Mozart with some teriffic
demos!

Mozart was the first composer to fully utilise the lower register. I
think it was Stadler's mastery and preferance for that previously
neglected range that inspired Mozart to break new ground.

Ed Maurey

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