The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Michael Kincaid
Date: 2000-06-12 03:03
I am thinking of getting some of the clarinetists
in my band to put together an ensemble for a clarinet
choir. We have a bass clarinet, alto clarinet and
plenty of Bb's. Is this the grouping that is usually
called for? I'm thinking we may plan ahead for Christmas music or something.
(I'm sorry if my question has been asked before.
I did a search and there is just so much information
on this board that I may have missed it. I was out of
town for a week and the number of new posts alone is
overwhelming--not a bad thing...just a lot!) Michael
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Author: Don Berger
Date: 2000-06-12 13:32
The one in Tulsa,OK I played in [and greatly enjoyed] extended from the Eb Soprano to the Bb contrabass, and with Dwight Dailey's conducting and Ed Morse finding arrangements it was a super and challenging experience learning the alto clarinet!! Don
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Author: drew
Date: 2000-06-12 16:26
As an adjunct to a local Community Band here in San Diego (Kearny Mesa Concert Band), a number of clarinetists have formed a clarinet choir called the Santa Ana Winds. We practice each week prior to band rehearsal, and perform at a number of local arts festivals and other venues. Since each person's availablility is a bit variable, we probably have a few more members than necessary. For most performances we have 1 player on 1st, 2 players each on 2nd and 3rd parts, and a single bass clarinetist. One of the members has an Eb (soprano) clarinet, and we can talk a non-member into playing Eb alto clarinet if needed. However, we have found that neither are critical for most pieces. Acceptable minimum for us seems to be 3 B flats to cover 1st, 2nd, 3rd parts and one bass clarinet.
Some of the key factors for success (member enjoyment) are
flexible player list - some members are very committed to making rehearsals, performances, etc., others have a lessor commitment. We welcome every person. Occasionally "non-members" perform with us, especially if we are short for a particular performance. Of course the "regulars" always perform and get the better parts.
access to a large library - through our band we have access to the largest library in the county. We also network with other groups to allow for a wide range of music styles and arrangements.
performance focus - we are very focused on performing. Rehearsals are great for building musicianship, but the end result must be performance. We are always looking for new venues.
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Author: Michael Kincaid
Date: 2000-06-12 23:11
Thank you Don and Drew, your comments were helpful. Having
performance as the goal certainly helps focus your attention with reheasals. I'm going to shop the idea around tonight at band and see if anyone is interested. Michael
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