Klarinet Archive - Posting 001078.txt from 1998/12

From: "Dan Leeson: LEESON@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: [kl] Basset horn vs. basset clarinet
Date: Tue, 29 Dec 1998 02:28:20 -0500

> From: MX%"klarinet@-----.47
> Subj: Re: [kl] Basset horn vs. basset clarinet

> At 09:47 AM 12/28/98 -0800, Gary Van Cott wrote:
> >The basset horn is pitched in F (below the range of soprano clarinets and
> >just above the alto clarinet). Many of the recently manufactured
> >instruments have a bore size similar to an alto clarinet, which some claim
> >does not make them a true basset horn. "Traditional" basset horns had a
> >bore size similar to a soprano clarinet, which gives them a unique sound,
> >but (I have read on the klarinet list) makes them difficult to play. The
> >range of the basset horn extends down to low C.
> >
> >The term "basset clarinet" generally refers to an A clarinet with a range
> >down to low C. However, there is at least one opera that calls for a
> >basset clarinet in Bb. So it might be proper to say that a basset clarinet
> >is a soprano clarinet with a range extended below Eb.
> >
> Would it then be reasonably accurate to say that a basset clarinet is a
> basset horn pitched in A (or possibly Bb)? Or am I missing some obscure
> detail?

It is not unreasonable but it flies in the face of traditional naming.
Also, the basset clarinet in A is a soprano instrument even in its
lowest range, whereas the b.h. is destined for lower reaches.

It is somewhat akin to calling a tuba a trumpet that plays low.

>
>
>
> Bill Hausmann bhausman@-----.com
> 451 Old Orchard Drive http://www.concentric.net/~bhausman
> Essexville, MI 48732 http://members.wbs.net/homepages/z/o/o/zoot14.html
> ICQ UIN 4862265
>
> If you have to mic a saxophone, the rest of the band is too loud.
>
> -------------------------------------------------------------------------
>
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Dan Leeson, Los Altos, California
leeson@-----.edu
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