Klarinet Archive - Posting 000181.txt from 2000/05

From: GrabnerWG@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Why low "C" bass.......was..... Early Beethoven, etc...]
Date: Thu, 4 May 2000 07:29:52 -0400

In a message dated 5/3/00 6:30:53 AM Central Daylight Time, bhausman@-----.com
writes:

<< The fact that the basset clarinet and the low C bass clarinet both
>happen to descend to low C is absolutely a coincidence. In the bass
>clarinet, the low C was used because it permits the b.c. to play bassoon
>parts. >>

Yes, Dan, this allows the bass to become a "third bassoon.' Many composers
have used this sound to great advantage.

I would add to Dan's remark in two ways. The low "C" bass can also double
cello parts. You orchestral bass players out there now how many times, in the
scoring, we are doubling cello.

Secondly, and more important in my mind, is that the addition of the
additional 8'' of bore really adds resonance to the bass, making it a (ohoh,
here we go, Dan!) richer and more noble voice for the orchestra.

WG starts controversy HERE.......

WG views low Eb basses as band instruments. He views low "C" as the
orchestral and chamber music instrument. Let's hear some comment on THAT!

Heehee.....can't help it, I like to rile things up a bit. Hence my frequent
Freudian typo, "inCITEful" comment????????

WG

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