Klarinet Archive - Posting 000881.txt from 2001/01

From: DGross1226@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Re: Contra search, continued
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001 18:48:59 -0500

In a message dated 01-01-26 16:17:34 EST, you ask:

<< an EEb contra-alto might be a better choice than BBb contra-bass, because
this would allow me to read baritone sax parts without transposition when
contra parts aren't available. If I were to get a BBb contra, however, I'd
probably end up reading tuba parts in those circumstances. Those of you who
regularly play contra, what would you suggest? >>

Dave, not only can you read bari sax parts without transposition, you can
read bass clef tuba/bassoon/etc. parts in C using the old trick of reading it
as treble clef and adding three sharps (you're on your own for accidentals.)
Plus the straight EEb contra-alto (either wood or resonite) really does
"sound" like a bass clarinet. I would avoid the Leblanc paperclip EEb contra
alto. To my ear, it has that unique sound of the metal Leblanc contras
(both EEb and BBb) -- sort of like a didgeridoo in heat -- and I own one
(BBb), too! Having said all that, in the absence of dedicated contra parts,
I personally prefer to double the bass clarinet part (an octave lower) much
like an orchestral cello/bass combination. Plus a lot of times, you'll find
yourself playing an octave below the tubas which is a thrill in itself. Keep
us posted!

Don Gross
La Canada, California

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