Klarinet Archive - Posting 000183.txt from 2003/07

From: Elgenubi@-----.com
Subj: [kl] Bassett Horn
Date: Mon, 7 Jul 2003 02:14:55 -0400

I just got back from Tehachapi (California, USA) and have finished reading
the 8 zillion (kl) emails in my In Basket. For the record, I am jealous of the
people attending the Fest in Salt Lake City. Maybe next year in Maryland.....

I arranged to meet with Dan Leeson in Bakersfield and I got to play "The
Bassett Horn". It is as beautiful as he says. I believe he is traveling and not
reading the list at this time. Some of you will be meeting him and trying the
instrument, yes? I am not a super strong player and have never played
bassett horn and I will pass on what I experienced from that perspective. He
suggests a weaker reed, a two or two and a half, and I wish I had followed that
advice. I was not able to make the clarion resonate to my satisfaction; I think
a softer reed would have helped. The chalameau was delightful. I tried to
relax and simply play, while he chatted with my friend. I had brought some
melodic romantic stuff that I could play expressively. What I wish I had brought
was more low register music, something that would use this intrument more
fully. To anyone planning to do as I did, that is to meet with him and learn
more about the bassett horn, I suggest going out of your way to get some music
for the instrument (with bassett notes) to play on it.

Wayne Thompson

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