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RE: The Clarinets role in the symphony orchestra

Author: Kevin Bowman
Date: 1999-08-09 20:15

Don't think that because there are far fewer clarinets than violins (for example) that the clarinet's role in the orchestra is less important - far from the truth! And though it is true that only two clarinets are called for in most orchestral music, many pro symphonies emply more than just two clarinetists. Detroit Symphony employs three full-time clarinetists and a full-time bass clarinetist. Also, remember the Eb clarinet part!

Having the largest playable range of any of the woodwinds, the clarinet performs many functions in the orchestral setting. It blends well with all the instruments surrounding it in the orchestra: flutes, oboes, bassoons, and even french horn (the instruments in a woodwind quintet!). And the clarinet projects very well, especially in the clarion and altissimo registers. (The projection issue is probably why, in a band, there are usually twice and many 2nd and 3rd clarinets as there are 1sts - because the written ranges for 2nd and 3rd parts done naturally speak as loudly and those written for 1sts).

Finally, youth orchestras tend to double up in the woodwind section (esp. clarinets and flutes) for a few reasons:
1) high school students who are used to playing in bands don't quite have "projection" under their belts yet - a vital characteristic for orchestra playing. Doubling up helps get the part "out there".
2) to give more students an opportunity to play in an orchestra.
3) there are occasional bass and Eb parts to be covered which can be covered by regular members doubling on these instruments - and doubling is an excellent experience (IMO).

To answer you question "what are we there for?", I would say "To make music!"

Kevin Bowman

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