Producing a Sound on the Bass Clarinet

The mouthpiece is held squarely in the mouth. Aim for deep, controlled breathing.

Insert more of the mouthpiece into the mouth when switching from a Bb clarinet.

The corners of the mouth should not be drawn back as much as for the Bb clarinet, but should be rounded with relatively even pressure all around.

Only the tongue moves when playing, not the jaw. Maintain a light, but definite attack using an open throat.

The embouchure does not get tightened in the upper register. However, the tongue gets arched slightly to assist in controlling the air.

 

The Correct Playing Position for the Bass Clarinet

Sit up straight on the edge of your chair with both feet on the floor. This posture aids in breathing from the diaphragm.

The bass clarinet is held in front of the player, never to the side.

Fingers are curved and placed just above the "home keys."

Wrists remain relaxed, with fingers aimed downward.

The weight of the head rests on the top of the mouthpiece. (This allows for a relaxed jaw and more control of the muscles of the lower lip.)

Interesting Facts About The Bass Clarinet

 The clarinet dates back to the 1600's and designed after the chalumeau (shall-oo-mo), a popular instrument in Germany.

The chalumeau had two keys and a single reed. Its range was low. Today, the lower register of the clarinet is referred to as the chalumeau register.

A German instrument maker named Denner invented the clarinet around 1700. By the year 1750, the clarinet now had 5 keys.

The first bass clarinet was built around 1770. It really was not popular though until 1830 when Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone improved the bass clarinet.

Around 1850, Buffet and Klose, French musicians adapted the Boehm flute system to the bass clarinet further improving this instrument.

They adjusted the spacing of each tone hole giving each note the same tone quality. A key system was added to cover the holes.

Today, clarinets are played in bands, orchestras, and woodwind ensembles.

Clarinets are usually made of ebonite, black African blackwood called grenadilla or plastic.

{from: http://schools.portnet.k12.ny.us/~dtedeschi/Bass_Clarinet.htm