Klarinet Archive - Posting 000154.txt from 2008/11

From: kurtheisig@-----.net
Subj: Re: [kl] Basset horn vs. Alto Clarinet
Date: Wed, 12 Nov 2008 17:48:11 -0500

A lot of the problem of non-use of the alto clarinet is just plain ignorance and predjudice.

Most alto clarinets that I see have 3 problems. 1---They are out of adjustment. It is true that the average "repairman" is probably incapable of getting them to work well. It is also true that factory work is often so bad that the repairman tries to come up to that level, when a whole new and better standard is needed. 2---execrable mouthpieces. (I make a fine one made to either a real alto clarinet reed---we have a thousand or more heavy - BLANKS-reeds in stock or , shudder, to alto sax shaped reeds like a famous company makes. Also the Vandoren 5rv isn't bad--though made for alto sax shaped reeds.) 3----Using alto sax reeds so the quality is marginal instead of a very clarinet like sound.

The Selmer 9 Alto Clarinets are marvelous instruments when re-built to higher than factory standards. Believe it or not, the Vito alto clarinet is inexpensive and can be a very nice instrument.

An alto clarinet or 4 in a Symphonic Band can really enrich the sound!

Kurt

-----Original Message-----
>From: Edward Escobar <elescobar@-----.com>
>Sent: Nov 12, 2008 1:55 PM
>To: klarinet@-----.org
>Subject: [kl] Basset horn vs. Alto Clarinet
>
>Just a quick question...
>
>With any modern clarinet music, mostly ensemble works, why would a
>composer decide to write in a basset horn and not an alto clarinet or
>vise versa?
>I have my thoughts on the matter, but would like to hear from the
>masses on this.
>
>Thanks
>
>Edward Escobar
>
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>

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