Klarinet Archive - Posting 000581.txt from 1998/12

From: "Clark, Dorothy" <ClarkDorothy@-----.com>
Subj: [kl] Should I ask for easier part?
Date: Mon, 14 Dec 1998 15:12:37 -0500

Hi,

I need some advice on my situation. I play for my church. I am the only
clarinetist. My concern is, the person that is writing the music for my
part is writing very high notes in the upper register (up to high A, but
mostly up to high Fsharp!). Not only is the fingering challenging, I blow
flat or sharp due to my embouchure not being all that good as of yet.

You see, I have not played since high school and at that time I did not play
in the high register at all anyway. I've hired an instructor to go over
the music with me and I practice everyday, which is really taking a toll on
my housework and taking care of the kids.

Would it be un-reasonable to ask this talented arranger and composer to
write my part a little simpler to read. It is not as if there is a
clarinet part in the songs; he is basically writing my part based on any
horn sounds that are coming from the recording. Sometimes he is even making
up a part for me.

Please give it to me straight. Before I go to this brother and fellow
musician of the church I would like to know what you talented seasoned
players have to say about the situation. Should I just hush and practice,
practice, practice or should my part be a little less challenging? Thanks.

Dorothy Clark
Have A Blessed Day!

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