Klarinet Archive - Posting 000151.txt from 2008/11

From: Joseph Wakeling <joseph.wakeling@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Basset horn vs. Alto Clarinet
Date: Wed, 12 Nov 2008 17:15:04 -0500

Dan Leeson wrote:
> Though your question is a good one, I could turn it around and ask why
> should a composer write for an alto clarinet when a perfectly
> satisfactory basset horn is available?

I don't think that was really the question, I think it was more along
the lines of what factors would influence the decision one way or another.

Another aspect not mentioned yet is ensemble conventions. In a wind
band you're likely to find alto clarinets but not basset horns. On the
other hand in orchestras, and indeed among all classical ensembles,
you're more likely to find basset horns. So one very simple reason for
choosing one way or the other is, 'What instrument can I expect to be
available?'

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