Author: lydian
Date: 2023-10-27 19:54
I'm speculating here, but the reason the lowest note on a contra-alto (the only Eb "bass" clarinet I know of) is called Eb is probably because the instrument is pitched in Eb, not D#. As you know from your music theory, the key of D# would have 9 sharps, 2 of which are double sharps (F## and C##), far more complex than the key of Eb and its 3 flats. Most wind instruments are typically pitched in flat keys (Bb, Eb, F). Some exceptions are a few in C and A. In both cases, no more than 3 flats or sharps.
Although the contra-alto was called contra-bass by many in the mid-20th century, I think contra-alto is most commonly used today. In any case, referring to it as a "bass" would be wrong since the bass clarinet is in Bb.
Generally, music theory exists to make how music works easier to comprehend, not harder. So if your particular solution to a music theory problem is really complex, it's probably not the best solution.
Post Edited (2023-10-27 19:59)
|
|
The Clarinet BBoard
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
.jpg){kind=small}
