Klarinet Archive - Posting 000028.txt from 2002/09

From: EClarinet@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Re: bass clarinet intonation
Date: Wed, 4 Sep 2002 16:32:40 -0400

In a message dated 9/4/02 3:05:19 PM EST, Walter writes:

<< I have been working on several bass clarinets lately, from a variety of
different makers, including Selmer, Buffet, and LeBlanc.

In almost every case, I find the long "B" to be about 20 cents sharp with
the C above only slightly less sharp. In some, but not all cases, the
corresponding 12th below is quite flat.

How many of you who play bass clarinet have the same experience? If so, how
have you coped with it? >>

EVERY bass clarinet I've ever played on has this same intonation problem,
whether student or professional. It makes playing the pas de deux solo in
Nutcracker really fun--NOT! I have tried pulling the bell or middle joint
out some to help, but it doesn't make much difference. If the passage does
not have to be played softly, I go ahead and 'blow' the pitches down, using
extra air. If I have to play softer, I will change my voicing, dropping my
tongue in the back to make it more open, and this helps lower the pitch. Of
course, it also changes the tone color, but that can't be helped--can it?

Elise Curran
Orlando, FL

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