Klarinet Archive - Posting 000290.txt from 2008/11

From: "Dan Leeson" <dnleeson@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] C vs Eb Bass Clarinet
Date: Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:51:27 -0500

As for the bass clarinet low C in a Sousa march, I was the bass clarinetist
for the New Sousa Band under Keith Brion for some time. During that time I
saw and played a march with the low C, but the title has gone from my head.
In going over the repertoire of what Brion did with the band, there were a
few long suites written or arranged by Sousa. There were examples of both
types. Perhaps it was in one of the suites that the low C came along. It was
some time ago.

Try contacting Keith Brion. I believe he has a website. I have no idea if he
is a responder to questions of this nature.

Dan Leeson

----- Original Message -----
From: "Matt Hanson" <matthanson920@-----.com>
To: <klarinet@-----.org>
Sent: Thursday, November 20, 2008 8:44 AM
Subject: Re: [kl] C vs Eb Bass Clarinet

The arguement toward a low C bass is undeniable as these notes are being
used more and more in new literature and in transcriptions of old, often
even in a community band setting.

Jacob is, however, correct. I know several who prefer the timbre of bass
clarinet to low Eb. Personally, I like not having to worry about the sharp
long B and other characteristics associated with a low C bass, as I find the
low end on most nice low Eb basses to be more colorful than their low C
counterparts which can seem somewhat thin and lacking by comparison. Don't
get me wrong -- I own both Eb and C French basses, but not everyone is able.
My low C bass is great, but my low Eb bass sounds better and is simply more
fun to play. Since I'm not getting paid to play it these days, unless I need
those notes, the choice (for me) is clear. If someone is debating the
purchase, it is ultimately up to them to decide whether or not the
additional three notes can be justified for their situation, whether it be
financial, playing environment, or whatever. Again, a low C bass is becoming
more and more necessary.

Just a curiosity, though... Having thought I'd played them all, I am eager
to learn which Sousa March has a low C for bass clarinet and if it is an
arrangement (possibly orchestral?) by someone after Sousa's time, as he died
in 1932. The only low C instruments I am aware of existing at that time were
German or Austrian horns which are still to this day rather uncommon in the
USA (again, one of the too many that I own). If it was indeed a
transcription, then that probably helps support the statement in my first
sentence. And yes, I am aware that Sousa was part German. :-)

Matthew Hanson

>
> There are five reasons why:
>
> 1. The literature calls for it. I found low C's in
> Sousa Marches.
>

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