Klarinet Archive - Posting 000984.txt from 1998/10

From: Roger Garrett <rgarrett@-----.edu>
Subj: RE: [kl] Basset Questions
Date: Thu, 22 Oct 1998 19:00:26 -0400

On Thu, 22 Oct 1998, Dan Leeson: LEESON@-----.edu wrote:
> > Is it accurate (but simplified) to say that a basset clarinet is just an A
> > clarinet extended to low C, and a basset horn is an Eb alto clarinet extended
> > to low C?
>
> Per the above comments, is is not accurate to state this.

Well, actually, according to your own statements, yes it is. The Leblanc
and Buffet instruments really have slight dimensional differences, but
very slight. I play and blow through the Buffet Alto Clarinet and the
Buffet Basset horns the exact same ways - same voicing, same pitch
issues......???

Same with the Basset Clarinet vs. A clarinet for Buffet. So, it is
simplified, and somewhat accurate to state generally what is above. Is it
exactly correct.....no.....and that may be what Dan is saying (or what I
hope he is saying).

> > For those who have played basset instruments, does the longer air column make
> > it more difficult to play those very low notes? Does the longer tube affect
> > the sound of the horn? For example, do clarion register notes on a basset
> > clarinet sound different than the same notes on an A clarinet?

Only on a few notes.....as with the extension of a bass clarinet. The
short Buffet Bass Clarinet and the extended bass clarinet have the same
feel EXCEPT on a couple of notes that are negatively affected by the
extension on the latter.

> If one is playing a basset horn, the narrow bore presents a variety of
> problems including a tendency to squeak, intonation difficulties, and
> a few other things such as mouthpiece selection. But there is no
> difficulty in playing the low notes on a b.h. They speak beautifully.

I just measured my Buffet Basset Horn......the bore is not even close to
the same size as an A clarinet bore - did I misunderstand what you said?

> German: It means "little bass."

Finally! So nice to have it stated for the record.....I am cutting and
pasting to my syllubus materials as we speak!

Roger Garrett
IWU

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