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Transposition - the long way

Author: DLE
Date: 2001-10-24 09:41

I have just done something I know I will most probably regret - but I wanted your opinions on it anyway.
As part of our "New Music Group", we are doing pieces by Stavinsky - one of which is a quartet for a Mezzo-Soprano singer (I think), two clarinets, and an 'E-Flat Alto Clarinet'. "So what is the problem?" I hear you cry.
Well, the problem is with the Alto Clarinet - we don't actually have one at the music department, and can't be bothered to get one. I myself own a Bass Clarinet, and have been 'Assigned' to play this part. So, in collaboration with the head of the group, we have decided to transpose the part to make it playable on the Bass Clarinet.
What do you lot think? Is it possible to play an Alto part on a Bass Clarinet, or am i pushing the limits of transposition too far (Which at the moment seems to be the case). P.s. Some of it is impossibly high for the Bass!!!!
DLE.

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RE: Transposition - the long way

Author: Arnold the basset hornist
Date: 2001-10-24 12:37

Well,

mostly it's not critical, if the lowest part is partially played one octave below its original sound, <u>but it has to be checked.</u>
This type of transposing is often done to make a basset horn trio playable for two Bb clarinets (playing 1st and 2nd part as written) together with an bass clarinet or a bassoon.

I hope, this helps,

Arnold (the basset honrist)

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RE: Transposition - the long way

Author: GBK
Date: 2001-10-24 13:01

Dave...I was not aware of anything that Stravinsky specifically composed for "mezzo soprano, 2 clarinets and Eb alto clarinet"

The only piece that I know that comes close to that instrumentation is the "Berceuses du Chat" (Cat's Cradle Songs), but those were originally written for contralto, Eb soprano clarinet, Bb (and A) clarinet and Bass clarinet.

The other work that he wrote which comes close to the instrumentation you described is the "Three Songs from William Shakespeare", but that was originally written for mezzo soprano, flute, clarinet and viola.

Is the work you are performing either of the above (in an arrangement)?

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