Klarinet Archive - Posting 000582.txt from 1998/12

From: "Dee D. Hays" <deehays@-----.com>
Subj: Re: [kl] Should I ask for easier part?
Date: Mon, 14 Dec 1998 15:44:00 -0500

-----Original Message-----
From: Clark, Dorothy <ClarkDorothy@-----.com>
Date: Monday, December 14, 1998 2:09 PM
Subject: [kl] Should I ask for easier part?

>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!

Discuss it with first with your teacher and then the arranger. What is
reasonable for you to master in the time available? Since the arranger is
right there, it is not unreasonable to explain your current situation and
see if he can accommodate it to some degree. Naturally, I am sure you will
be quite tactful. You are very fortunate to have direct access to the
arranger. Try to keep a little challenge though so you can grow and
develop.

Of course your skills will grow over time so don't let temporary
difficulties discourage you. It is great that you have returned to playing.
I found that when I resumed, it was not only deeply satisfying but a way to
help alleviate the stress of the everyday world.

Good luck,

Dee Hays
Canton, SD

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