Klarinet Archive - Posting 001274.txt from 1998/10

From: GrabnerWG@-----.com
Subj: Re: [kl] Big clarinet
Date: Thu, 29 Oct 1998 10:29:34 -0500

In a message dated 10/28/98 11:49:16 PM Central Standard Time, Barb073@-----.com
writes:

<< : Barb073@-----.com
Reply-to: klarinet@-----.org
To: klarinet@-----.org

Okay, all you bass clarinet gurus out there, I've got one for you. One of my
clarinet students brought what appeared to be a late-model Vito bass cl. to
her lesson today. She could play from the lowest E to throat Bb with no
problems, but the minute she crossed the break, nothing but squeaks and
squawks.
>>
Crossing the break on the BCL separates the men...excuse me ladies.....the
Adults from the Kids....OOPS sorry kids........

I'll try again.....bass clar is easy to play in the chalumeau register, even
with a crappy instrument. The upper register is much less stable. For this
problem I would look at the horn for leaks, even minute leaks can cause the
squeaks and squawks you a talking about. Try her with another bass that you
know works to test this.

Next, look at the embouchure...if she's biting, if her chin muscles are
bunched up...guess what? A strong supported embouchure is essential for
success.

Next, look at her reeds. Most students play on reeds that are too soft.
Whatever strength she uses on the Bb should also be used on the bass (this
does depend on the mouthpiece facing). Soft reed - nice rich fluid low
register, again squeaks in the high register.

Next, look at the mouthpiece....a worn or uneven facing...YIKES

So it could be any or all of the above. I'd really look at the instrument
first. If it's leaky, no matter what you do with the other stuff, she'll never
be successful. I have tried many student model bass clarinets.....sorry
Leblanc....but I never found a Vito I would ever want to give a
student.......and nice Bndy tho.........

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