 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Robert Small
Date: 2001-03-07 17:44
I have been enjoying my new Selmer model 37 (low C) bass for about a week now. I'm getting used to the extended range and can move in and out of it fairly nimbly while standing. But I haven't yet found a sitting position that frees up the right hand enough to easily manipulate this part of the horn. The horn is so long that the bell rests on the floor. I don't see much point in using the peg; it would only put the mouthpiece higher up and harder to get to. I use a thick cushion to raise my sitting position up some and this helps but the bell is still resting on the floor and I find it difficult to position the horn away from my side so that I can freely manipulate the extended range notes. Anyone have any suggestions for positioning this behemoth so that my right hand can easily work the extended notes. I don't mind standing while playing but I need to be able to play while sitting to do big band gigs and orchestral work.
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Author: Blake
Date: 2001-03-07 19:14
Try using the peg and sitting on a stool like the string basses use or another higher seat. Blake
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Author: Ken Shaw
Date: 2001-03-07 19:26
Robert -
From your description, you seem to be playing the instrment off to the side, to the right of your right leg, like a baritone sax. It should go between your legs. Also, sit forward in the chair, with your left leg forward and your right leg back. Angle your right foot outward and brace the floor peg against the heel of your shoe. This will set the mouthpiece at an angle closer to soprano clarinet. A neck strap is pretty much necessary to keep from killing your right thumb holding the instrument at an angle.
You should use the floor peg, if only to keep the bell off the floor. As little as 1/2" or even 1/4" is enough. Otherwise you risk denting it at the bottom, and any slip that bangs the bell on the floor will also throw the adjustment of the other keys out. Bass is very finicky that way.
Keep us posted on how you do.
Best regards.
Ken Shaw
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Author: Robert Small
Date: 2001-03-07 22:27
I tried playing using the position described by Ken (or an approximation ) and while it felt awkward at first (I'm a sax player so the side position feels more natural) I think that it's probably the way to go. With some practice and a little experimentation on where to place the peg I think I can get used to it. This method also has the advantage of placing most of the weight of the horn on the peg. Having all the weight supported by a loop screwed into the wood makes me nervous.
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Author: S.Koumas
Date: 2001-03-07 22:57
Hi,
Yeah same as above, sit on a stool whilst playing but try not to loose your poshture (sp?) Dont rest the bell on the floor always use the peg, even just a bit!
S.Koumas
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Author: LynnL
Date: 2001-03-08 19:38
To add just a bit to what Ken recommended, try and angle the peg back toward your chair to sort of get under the Mpc. This will effectively increase the angle of the neck, which is what C Bay's special necks are supposed to do. I've been playing BC that way for 42 yrs., and it works great.
Good Luck!
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Author: Gordon (NZ)
Date: 2001-03-08 23:28
I think necks are made at two different angles, each being more appropriate for a given playing position. Selmer possibly has both available.
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