 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2003-03-20 03:10
Well, tonight the community band that I play in asked me if I would play bass clarinet. They need that part to be covered (since they're aren't any) and I'm assuming that since I'm the newest clarinet member, the first person they'd ask was me. At least they were nice enough to ask. I decided I may as well do it figuring I play clarinet in other ensembles and this will give me a variety and a chance to have a solo/soli part no matter WHAT piece we are playing. And it's enjoyable. A little dull, not quite as "fun" as the standard Bb clarinet parts (especially since for this spring concert we are playing a GREAT tune called "CLARINET CANDY". Wow. Now that's some fun!), but nonetheless fun and important to have that bass sound.
However my jaw was killing me while I was playing it. I'm assuming it's from the MUCH larger mouthpiece. I used a Rico size 3 reed (I normally play on a V12 or Gigliotti size 4 for Bb). I just hope to get a confirmation on the fact that it was the new mouthpiece that made my jaw hurt and not the size reed. I play all notes, none "airy" so I'm assuming the reed is a good strength for now.
Also, think it's worth looking into bass clarinet mpcs to get a little later? Or should I wait to see if this will be a regular thing before doing something like that? I figure having a bass clarinet mouthpiece can't hurt . . . . . . .
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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Author: deblcooper
Date: 2003-03-20 08:48
Alexi,
What a compliment to be asked to play the bass! They must really be impressed with your playing to ask you to make a move!
I was asked to play the bass when my high school band was planning a concert in which we recorded an album. (yes, album is another name for LP, record, etc.)
I remember my jaw aching but it was the way I was holding the bass. Make sure you are not holding it with your mouth also. The weight of the bass is too much for the average jaw. Check and re-check your posture throughout your practice sessions.
Hope this helps,
deb
www.godlyd.com
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Author: javier garcia m
Date: 2003-03-20 13:51
use a neckstrap and a peg, these devices will hold all the weight (even for open G). Loose your embochure, may be you are squeezing the mp a little bit.
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Author: Don Poulsen
Date: 2003-03-20 14:34
And to say what I've said before, take Javier's advice about using the neckstrap and peg, and then sit forward on the chair, sit straight up and lean the instrument so that the bell is under your chair and the mouthpiece is at an angle similar to that of a soprano clarinet. This might help with your jaw aches.
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Author: William
Date: 2003-03-20 14:37
For bass clarinet mouthpieces, Walter Grabner's models simply cannot be beat. He is a Sneezy sponser--as well as personally, a very good bass clarinetist--and is accesable and will "go the extra measure" to fit you with a mouthpiece that will work for you.
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Author: Bob A
Date: 2003-03-20 21:23
Alexi, when you break open the piggy bank and decided to buy your own bass, let Dave Spiegelthal modify your neck to a "quasi-Bay" style. Then your posture won't be too forced and the angle much more comfortable. You might even relax too much and think you are playing sax- ![[grin]](http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/smileys/smilie5.gif) .
Bob A
Post Edited (2003-03-21 03:41)
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Author: sfalexi
Date: 2003-03-21 05:47
Funny you should say that Bob A. Dave's helping me with some stuff already, and as for the sax comment. Too late. I already played some awkard notes at my first rehearsal because of slipping into my "tenor sax" mentality. The spread of the fingers and larger mouthpiece just made it seem right.
As for buying a bass, not in the near future. In the future, yes, but not in the near one.
Alexi
US Army Japan Band
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Author: Bass Clarinet
Date: 2003-03-21 16:20
Mmmm. Jaw pain....my favorite! I too, have problems with my jaw when playing bass clarinet, but for me it's a medical condition. For you, it's probably just getting used to the bigger mouthpiece. Try a softer reed. Whereas I play a 4.5 Mitchell Lure on clarinet, I play a Rico Royal 3 on bass clarinet. Just remember, a reed is not a status symbol.
BC
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