Instrument: Bass Clarinet (In Depth)

Summary

In this insightful guide, Laurent Ben Slimane, principal bass clarinetist of the Philharmonia Orchestra, introduces the bass clarinet, discussing its construction, playing techniques, and role in orchestral music. He explains the instrument's unique parts, such as the reed and mouthpiece, and demonstrates how it produces sound. Ben Slimane also shares valuable tips on embouchure, articulation, and how the bass clarinet fits within larger orchestral settings. Highlighting excerpts from famous works like Tchaikovsky's *Manfred Symphony* and Stravinsky's *The Rite of Spring*, the video offers a deep dive into the versatility and beauty of the bass clarinet.

Takeaways

• 😀 The bass clarinet is part of a large family of clarinets, with over a dozen different types, ranging from the small A-flat clarinet to the massive octocontrabass clarinet.
• 😀 Bass clarinets are typically made of African hardwood (blackwood or grenadilla), and the instrument is assembled from five main parts: the bell, lower joint, upper joint, crook, and mouthpiece.
• 😀 The reed, which is made from cane, plays a critical role in producing sound on the bass clarinet. The reed vibrates when air is blown through the instrument.
• 😀 The bass clarinet is a transposing instrument, meaning when a written C is played, it sounds as a B-flat, similar to the soprano clarinet.
• 😀 The bass clarinet's key system includes extensions to cover larger holes, making it easier to play the low notes. Some keys can be controlled by the thumb.
• 😀 A custom-made spike can help balance the instrument's weight, allowing musicians to play standing up without strain on the thumb.
• 😀 Different spikes made of materials like rubber or metal can alter the sound of the bass clarinet by changing how vibrations are transmitted to the floor.
• 😀 Playing bass clarinet requires a different embouchure from other clarinets, with more pressure on the lips and more mouthpiece involved for a fuller, richer sound.
• 😀 Bass clarinetists may encounter extended techniques such as growling, multiphonics, or singing while playing, offering a wide range of expressive possibilities.
• 😀 In orchestral settings, bass clarinetists often play in unison with low brass and string sections. A beautiful, full sound is crucial for blending with these sections.
• 😀 The bass clarinet's range includes notes as low as C, and different models may have slightly varying ranges, with some going down to low E-flat.

Q & A

What is the bass clarinet made of?

The bass clarinet is typically made of African hardwood, also known as blackwood or grenadilla. Some parts, like the bell, crook, and mouthpiece, are made of metal.

How many parts does the bass clarinet have?

The bass clarinet consists of five main parts: the bell, lower joint, upper joint, crook, and mouthpiece.

Why is the bass clarinet considered a transposing instrument?

The bass clarinet is a transposing instrument because the written notes (e.g., a written C) sound differently when played. For example, a written C on the bass clarinet sounds like a B-flat.

What role does the reed play in sound production on the bass clarinet?

The reed, made from cane, vibrates when air is blown through the instrument, creating the sound. The reed is held in place on the mouthpiece by a ligature.

What is the significance of the spike on the bass clarinet?

The spike on the bass clarinet helps support the instrument on the floor, preventing the bell from touching the ground. This ensures the sound remains full and doesn't lose low harmonics.

How does the bass clarinet differ from other clarinets in terms of key design?

The bass clarinet has larger holes that are too wide for the fingers to cover, so it uses keys with extensions to reach the lower notes, making it different from other clarinets.

What are some techniques specific to the bass clarinet?

Techniques for the bass clarinet include growling, multiphonics, and playing while singing. The instrument also requires adjustments in embouchure to achieve a rich sound, especially for lower notes.

What is the difference between a bass clarinet that goes to low C and one that goes to low E-flat?

A bass clarinet that goes to low C is slightly longer and provides a wider range, while one that goes to low E-flat is shorter and easier to play, making it suitable for younger players.

What should be done to maintain a bass clarinet?

The bass clarinet should be serviced at least once a year for minor adjustments, and a complete overhaul should be done every four to five years to maintain its sound quality.

What challenges do bass clarinet players face in terms of sound production?

Bass clarinet players must manage the embouchure carefully, as using the same technique as the soprano clarinet can result in a small, squeaky sound. A larger mouthpiece and more lip contact are needed for a fuller, richer sound.