Klarinet Archive - Posting 000519.txt from 1998/11

From: Anne Bell <bell@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Oh frabjous day!!- period instruments
Date: Sat, 14 Nov 1998 15:42:39 -0500

I missed the first post- mail problem (Mark thanks for fixing it), but I
can say that playing on period instruments is quite an experience- it is
very different than playing the same piece on modern equivalents. I have
been playing with a Collegium Musicum group at a nearby University. I just
had the opportunity to play crumhorn- an intonational nightmare but a
unique and fascinating experience. I normally play Bass Viol de Gamba-
much like a Cello but no end peg and 6 strings. It is a beautiful
instrument to look at as well as play. I feel that I've gained quite a bit
of historical and musical insight by playing with the group (though I do
it because its fun!). Some of the individuals are very knowledgeable about
early instruments and performance practice and I've also gleened quite a
bit of information from them.
While I haven't played very much on period or reproduction period
clarinets I have had the opportunity to try both and quite enjoyed it-
there is definately a difference! There were a number of performances and
lectures on early clarinet at ClarinetFest this year. I found it
particularly amusing when it was pointed out that Mozart included some
horribly awkward passages and when Stadler complained Mozart is reported to
have asked if the notes were on his instrument, since they were all Stadler
had to do was play them!

Anne

Anne Bell
bell@-----.net

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