The Clarinet
The clarinet, which is two-thirds cylindrical,
has an eye-popping range. To complete a chromatic scale more than 24 keys
are needed. But, there are still notes that can't be played. Because of
this, many clarinetists carry an A clarinet to cover the gap of the B flat
clarinet. The A clarinet takes care of the sharp keys, while the B flat
clarinet is used for flat keys. There are many complex fingerings, and sometimes
up to ten different fingerings can play the same note.
It is believed that the name of the clarinet came from the word "clarion,"
meaning a clear-sounding instrument. During the 1700's, the clarinet had
only five keys; but, by the end of the 18th century, the clarinet's range
expanded, and orchestras wouldn't dare to have less than two.
Out of a family of twenty-seven, only two are extremely common. These are
the A and B flat clarinet.
The E flat clarinet is smaller and sounds a fourth above the b flat clarinet,
while the bass clarinet is an octave (eight notes) lower than the B flat.
Like most other woodwind instruments, the reed is one of the most important
parts of the clarinet. Mostly coming from the Mediterranean, the reeds are
cut and put in the open air for two years or more.
Famous clarinet pieces are:
Mendelssohn: Overture Midsummer Night's Dream
George Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue
