 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Amy
Date: 2003-09-01 19:00
Hi everyone! This is going to sound a bit....dumb, but I would really like to know so......
I just found out today that I have been made principal clarinetist in an orchestra (yay!). The dumb question is that I don't know what I have to do as principal clarinetist. Is it like a section leader? I've never been in an orchestra before and the first rehearsal is on Thursday (today is Monday) and I don't want to look stupid! Please help!
Thankyou very much!
Post Edited (2003-09-01 19:02)
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Author: clarinet87
Date: 2003-09-02 00:06
Being first chair clarinet in an orchestra isn't exactly like being section leader in a marching band because you don't really have to help the other clarinetists. First chair means you must be well prepared for each rehearsal and your music should be nearly perfect. It also means that you will get most of the solos.
Good luck on being principial clarinet!
Post Edited (2003-09-02 00:12)
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Author: Synonymous Botch
Date: 2003-09-02 01:52
Lead by example in your playing, and your attention to the director.
Give guidance if, and only if, asked.
It's not like being a concert master.
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Author: ron b
Date: 2003-09-02 02:26
Congratulations, Amy!
Besides there being no such thing as a dumb question, yours doesn't even begin to sound dumb. (You'll have to try much harder next time
Thousands have been in a situation very much like where you find yourself today and, have asked the same question about it. "What do I do???"
As principal clarinet you play mostly first clarinet parts, unless you like to switch off with the second clarinetist (highly recommended) on some pieces - that's sorta up to you two, three or four, and the conductor. I always tried to trade off, just for the variety/experience and to give all us clarinets a better grasp of the teamwork involved. It's also a good idea to switch off so your buddy can fill in for you if you can't make a performance. It happens, you know :(
Generally, as said above, you play your part (whichever one) the best you can... all the time, every time.
And, don't forget... Have Fun !
- r![[cool]](http://test.woodwind.org/clarinet/BBoard/smileys/cool.gif) n b -
Post Edited (2003-09-02 02:34)
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Author: Amy
Date: 2003-09-02 15:12
Thanks everyone. Now at least I'll know what I'm supposed to be doing on Thursday.
SVSorna05:
It is a county orchestra. We are called the County Junior Wind Orchestra (imaginative, I know!) There are a lot of orchestras run by our county music centre (String orchestras, brass bands etc) and we are only called that because there has to be some way to distinguish us from the other thirty or so groups. As far as I know (from asking other people who already play in it) it consists mostly of 12-18 year olds. I will be one of the youngest at 13!
I'm really looking forward to Thursday. I'm nervous but very excited. Thanks for all of your good wishes.
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Author: John O'Janpa
Date: 2003-09-02 16:53
In some "wind orchestras" or "wind symphonies" the principal clarinetist is also the concertmaster. If you are, you will probably be the source of the tuning note. (be warmed up in advance and check your note with an electronic tuner).
If you are the concertmaster, you will also have some protocol to follow concerning stage entrance, bows, etc. during performances. Ask your director what your duties will be. None of them are difficult but you need to know what's expected as soon as possible.
Congratulations, you are obviously a talented and dedicated player.
John
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