Klarinet Archive - Posting 000475.txt from 2003/06

From: "Dr. Laroy Borchert" <lborcher@-----.edu>
Subj: RE: [kl] Doubling (was High Clarinet, Low Clarinet ?)
Date: Tue, 17 Jun 2003 11:08:35 -0400

I wrote a paper on this that was presented at the New Mexico All-State
Convention a few years ago. I encouraged doubling within the clarinet
section, especially in the public schools for the following reasons.
1) Seniors will graduate and some early training of the younger students
will be good for the band in the future.
2) Playing only one of the low clarinets or only Eb soprano will limit your
technique (anyone seen most alto clarinet parts that double the french
horns?)
3) Playing only Bb soprano may be great, but if you are interested in
majoring/minoring in music, you might be able to break into the wind
ensemble on bass or Eb sop. because there are so many Bb soprano players
already in the section.
3) balance section, not just strong first, mediocre 2nd, and weak 3rd)
4) Job versatility (others have commented on this) Very important to be
able to break into the playing scene on something. It certainly helps to
get your foot in the door. You still have to prove yourself, but that first
step is important.
5) Importance of hearing the band from another perspective (playing bass
can make you much more aware of the bass line)
6) Pros are also known for doing this. I have seen others from the CSO
section play first at concerts, not just Larry Combs.
6) Playing a great solo at contest, getting a I and the judge asks, "
What chair do you sit?" and you can say . . . "I play bass and Eb this
concert." This can get the judge to try and recruit you and the rest of the
clarinet section to play in the university/college level.

LHB
Dr. Laroy Borchert
Professor of Clarinet
New Mexico State University
Las Cruces, NM 88003
(505) 646-3735
lborcher@-----.edu

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