 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Ben
Date: 2005-01-13 16:29
I am playing in the premiere to an opera next month and my part is for bass clarinet (to low C) doubling on contra alto. Since the lowest note on a contra alto is only a half-step lower than the low C on my bass clarinet, wouldn't it make most sence to transpose the passages for contra alto for my bass and not worry about switching back and forth?
Also, since the contra alto I would be using is a Bundy, and my bass is a Buffet Prestige, I am thinking that the quality of instruments wouldn't be very equal either. Although the contra alto does have a unique color, if the instrument isn't as good, perhaps it would cause more problems in the end?
Any thoughts about what to do?
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Author: David Spiegelthal ★2017
Date: 2005-01-13 16:52
Probably play what the composer wrote, unless you have compelling logistical or musical reasons to do otherwise. Contra and bass do sound somewhat different, even on the same notes.
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Author: Terry Stibal
Date: 2005-01-13 18:21
I'd second that. In every case that I've ever encountered (all outside of concert band music; I make no generalizations there), the "wheezy" tone color of the contra-alto (which is the true bass of the clarinet family, by the way; the bass is actually a tenor voice) was used for some "coloration" of the final piece.
I've noted contra-alto in three shows now, and actually had to use it in two. "The Producers", in its Broadway book, calls for contra, bari, bass and (I seem to remember) bassoon in one book.
Then again, I've played orchestral works where the provision of the contra-alto was nothing more than an effort on the part of the composer to be "cute". These are the same types of works where (overall) things are done in a strange way, and you get the feeling that the composer was just trying to use up every trick that s/he could think of. Sort of like how a first grader does a drawing…one bird looks good, so let's include twenty birds and make it twenty times as good.
Regarding the carriage of one of these things, I would agree with others who have posted about their hand carts. I would go one step further and recommend the purchase of a "Micro Rock 'n' Roller" musician's cart. They're available through (shudder) Guitar Center, truly the center of all that is evil in music, and a number of the on-line houses carry them as well. You should be able to get one for around $90.00, perhaps a little less on the internet.
(Don't make the mistake of ordering one of the larger versions - they work fine and will carry more than the 500 lbs the Micro version is rated for, but they take up far more room in the trunk.)
The beauty of the Micro Rock 'n' Roller is that it folds up small enough to fit in a standard suitcase, yet it opens up to a full five foot long platform, complete with upright handles and easy rolling urethane castors and wheels. No bass clarinet, baritone sax or guitar player should be without one, and we have "sold" six to the members of our musical group just upon the performance of the first one that we bought. A great piece of equipment, and useful for far more than carrying around large clarinets.
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Author: John J. Moses
Date: 2005-01-13 21:36
HI Ben:
You write:
"I am playing in the premiere to an opera next month and my part is for bass clarinet (to low C) doubling on contra alto."
Are you being paid for the double? Bass + Contra should pay a double, plus cartage (by Union rules). If this is an amateur production, and you are not being paid, speak to the composer and the conductor, if possible, before switching any parts around.
One of the biggest "no-no's" in the business, is to re-orchestrate yourself, without permission. It's a quick way to lose a job, or never be rehired. The composer, orchestrator, arranger, and conductor, all have their ideas about what instrument you are supposed to be playing.
My advise is; play what's written.
JJM
Légère Artist
Clark W. Fobes Artist
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Author: clarinetist04
Date: 2005-01-13 23:03
Well said. If you're getting paid, you should get paid for playing both Contra and Bass. If not, ask...otherwise...
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Author: Ben
Date: 2005-01-14 01:04
It's a school production, not a professional one.
I guess I'll try out switching back and forth and see if it makes sence in relation to the other parts. If not, the composer will be there for me to discuss any changes with.
I've played contra alto before, but I prefer bass clarinet in general.
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Author: John J. Moses
Date: 2005-01-14 03:26
Ben, enjoy the production, it's a premiere!
Give doubling a chance, it'll grow on you, and Contra's really not so bad.
The experience may give some real insight to the pressures of doubling, and playing a less familiar horn.
When you do get around to doing this for real money, my advise is;
Get good horns...your doubles should be the best horns you can find and afford.
Good luck,
JJM
Légère Artist
Clark W. Fobes Artist
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