Bass Clarinet: The basics for clarinet or saxophone players

[@josequins9099]

My music teacher in school was a cornet player. He only gave me the basics on clarinet embouchure and it held me back so much. I struggled with the higher register and wasn't even aware that there were alternate fingerings. There was no internet when I was in school so there was no such thing as online learning. Thank you so much for your videos, they are perfect for musicians who maybe don't have expert tuition for their instruments.

[@emilyislate]

I'm marching the bass clarinet and Let's just say I just got my instrument yesterday and band camp starts next week and I'm extremely worried because I originally marched the clarinet in my freshman year and I'm not use to a much heavier instrument but this helped at least with my sound.

[@oceaniwave]

At least it's not a Tuba XD

[@leafy7]

My story’s similar to you but I’m worried they will not accept me in band as bass clarinet since they almost never had bass clarinet before, my bandcommonly has piccolos, tenor saxes, bass saxes, what about bass clarinets?!?

[@galoa91]

I used neck strap in marching band.

[@Fire-ph7qn]

You should use a strong neckstrap and start getting use to it little by little

[@thatboredgamer2269]

@@leafy7 how the heck do they have a bass sax? Those are like 15,000. U probably mean bari

[@ChrisTheAppleOne]

I'm in the small pit band at my school for modern millie, the musical, and I have to switch between Clarinet and Bass Clarinet. I've been a clarinet player for 3 years, but never played the bass clarinet, so this was very useful! I can't wait to try these tips on the bass clarinet, at the moment I find I have to blow so hard to get a noise out of it, it's tough to get a note out of it aha!

[@ClarinetMentors]

Good luck with that! You may need to go with a much softer reed than you do on clarinet. If you are finding it hard to get a basic sound, a softer reed could really help. I use a 2.75 or a 3 on bass (and a 3.75 or 4 on Bb)

[@NeedNoSleep]

and your very rude

[@gracegorman642]

I have reported it. The more people who do that, the better.

[@oceaniwave]

@@NeedNoSleep How? 😂

[@edwardgadea1435]

thank you very much for this video! i recently transitioned to bass clarinet from Bb clarinet for a concert band and this really helped me out in getting accustomed to the irregular position and tuning problems.

[@nervchemnitz]

I managed to land myself a cheap, used bass clarinet a couple months ago and yes the instrument is addicting!!! So cool stumbling across Michelle's clarinet videos, as I used to play an alto clarinet in her community band around 20 years ago. Had to stop playing around 15 years ago and just started playing again around 8 months ago.

[@heyguysitsky2997]

I appreciate this video. I just switched to Bass Clarinet from Clarinet and this really helped me

[@sleepyenby8036]

Thank you for this! I'm in 8th grade and I've been playing Bb clarinet for almost a year. I'm playing Bb clarinet for marching band and Bass for concert band! :) This was very helpful!

[@clarissa_4life.m601]

I only play the bass clarinet and I love it !

[@angelicmethod]

I loved playing the bass clarinet! Just started playing Bb clarinet again after 20ish years and would love to play bass again!

[@jackinator11]

Be careful. I heard lots of saddening stories of addiction to this instrument... ;)

[@ClarinetMentors]

Hmmm - perhaps this is a dangerous video…I've seen that addiction in action as well!

[@u47tube]

Jackinators Let's Play-Oase Playing trumpet for 52 years. Picked up bass clarinet recently--addicted.

[@GrandMasterPainter]

The saddest thing is the price, I'm still currently addicted to the bass clarinet though I have never owned one. It is by far my favorite wind instrument, from the actual sound to playing it, love it all around!!

[@gracegorman642]

Totally. Long story short. Because the only band I have time for at the moment desperately needed the regular clarinet I made the utlimate sacrifice. As soon as there's more clarinets in this band I will go back to my beloved bass clarinet.

[@JohnRandomness105]

@@u47tube: Trumpet to bass clarinet? That's quite a change. Curious: are the contra-alto and contrabass clarinets as addicting?

[@jamarisaiah3994]

Couldn't have came at a better time I'm about to start learning in a few weeks

[@matthewmillar3804]

I'm looking to take up bass clarinet and found this video really interesting. I've never played a wind instrument in my life, so I was a little lost with some things you said, but angles and amounts of mouth piece seems analogous to attack and position of right hand when I'm playing my bass guitar (my primary instrument). Thanks for the help! (I'm going to start on "little" clarinet.) ;)

[@senojlegin17]

Many thanks - very useful instruction. I've just borrowed a bass (usually play Bb/A) and have one week to get used to it before an orchestral workshop.

[@markking8692]

My main instrument is flute but i played the alto clarinet for a couple of months and loved it unfortunately it broke and i'm thinking about playing bass clarinet

[@GrandMasterPainter]

I have always wanted to play the alto clarinet, but due to the price, and my school band not having one I never have thus far, but I definitely plan on it in the future

[@littlemisskimmycat78]

Was the alto clarinet taken in to be fixed?

[@woodstock8908]

I’d say go for. It’s an amazing instrument!

[@janicexho]

Brandon Burt Same.

[@pizzakevin2652]

YES! BASS CLARINET! XD

[@kennmiller3278]

I am a piano player who also plays flute, and a bit of alto sax. My son played b flat clarinet from 6th through 10th grade. I just bought a vintage B flat. Never could play the thing. But I remember how playing piccolo helped my flute so before I attack bass clarinet I thought I’d wrestle with this b flat. so keep making vids because I’m going to need you. Thanks in advance sister.

[@talbotvanman]

Originaly percussion (drums vibraphone etc) sick of the "humping" involved I turned to clarinet which I toyed with for years. In two rehearsal orchestras I was delighted one night playing a number which didnt involve fast runs and high notes because it turned out it was a bass clarinet part. Expressing my pleasure to a sax player he lent me a bass clarinet and I took to it instantly.The instrument was made for me if you know what I mean ! I have since bought my own and it is (musically) my future and all this at the age of 83 !! So many thanks for this post Michelle I shall be a "follower from now on.

[@ClarinetMentors]

I believe that some people are just made to play bass clarinet! I hope you enjoy it!

[@alexlatoche]

I just discovered your channel - i play Bass Clarinet in a wind orchestra - and i LOVE your videos! They are soooooo GREAT!! Thank you for posting and offering tips for us to improve! :-)

[@ClarinetMentors]

+alex latoche Hi Alex - Thanks for the kind words. I also play in a wind orchestra, and love that kind of ensemble. I'll try and get around to more bass clarinet videos in future.

[@galoa91]

I played Bass clarinet in Highschool back In the 60's. I would really get my breath control and embrochur back In shape again.

[@ClarinetMentors]

Hi Lois - Many people return to their instrument after years away. It helps to remind yourself of what good habits you want to develop as you return - air support, embouchure, tonguing, etc. The good news is, on some level deep in your brain, your body remembers many things so you may be surprised at how quickly many of your skills return. Many people find that after about 3 months they are playing quite well. You just need to get those muscles back in shape. Have fun! I'm sure a local community band would welcome a bass clarinetist.

[@krane15]

@@ClarinetMentors I'm so glad to hear you say that. I'm in the same boat as Lois and I always wanted to get back to playing music again. I remember how much fun it was.

[@dbolt6543]

I was given a bass clarinet in grade 9 and no instructions in how to hold it. It also had a straighter neck so the mouth piece was almost at a tight angle to the body. I found it hard to blow into when holding ot vertically and the only way I could get comfortable was to play it off to my side like a sax. No one ever told me that this was incorrect. In grade 10 the other bass clarinet player and I were in the same class nd one of our 2 bass clarinets died and we needed and alto sax so I was given one of those to learn. In grade 11 they had too many altos and not enough tenor saxes so I learned it. I was asked to play a bass clarinet in one piece because we had 2 again but I didn't have reed for it, but my tenor reed worked, but not the other way around. IN grade 12 I stayed on the tenor but one song needed a soprano sax. Since I had done a bit of regular clarinet and knew the sax fingering they gave it to me to play. I loved the sound it made but there were more tenor parts. If you are going to double up I would not suggest bass clarinet and tenor sax, too damn heavy carrying 2. I only wish I had a reed player for a music teacher.

[@extrachromosome7114]

Those saxophones won't know what hit them! (I was in a small clarinet group of five and there are seventeen sax players in my middle school band, but now I with a bass clarinet I can bring some noise and attention to our long forgotten clarinet section)

[@woodstock8908]

If you're having issues with the angle of the mouthpiece instead of tipping the whole instrument you can get a different neck. They have ones that come in your mouth just like a clarinet, tenor sax, or anywhere in between. That's a much better option.

[@TarrinLupo]

Your videos are so great, TY for making them. I would love to learn a bass clarinet but they are pricey.

[@oceaniwave]

You can rent one and pay monthly.

[@carlaernst4554]

Love your video! I have a B-flat, A, E-flat Alto, and Bass Clarinet, and play in the Milwaukee Wisconsin area.

[@dachshunddadbob6765]

Michelle, I am starting out on a Bass and my instructor, Dr. Wagner at UMKC also advised the purchase of a Legere Reed. I agree with you both! Big time improvement in my sound!

[@ClarinetMentors]

Good to hear your results. Thanks for commenting. I hope you are enjoying your bass.

[@MichaelEBeard]

Michelle thanks for your easy teaching style.

[@littlemisskimmycat78]

I played the bass clarinet in the concert band at high school for a couple of years and at the time, the school didn’t have any bass clarinet reeds available and neither did my local music store so I was given tenor sax reeds to use, as they are almost the same size as bass clarinet reeds are. Once I was able to get a bass clarinet reed and tried one out, I found that I didn’t like the bass clarinet reeds. I found the tenor sax reeds better for me. I don’t know why this was but it I found the tenor sax reeds worked better. Maybe it had something to do with the shape of my mouth.

[@venetusverendus]

I'm a percussionist and I'm going to start learning bass clarinet. Wish me luck

[@isabellundstedt1430]

This is so helpful 😩 I'm switching between bass and Bb clarinet during my score for out college production of Mary Poppins.

[@fernie51296]

I'm glad you like the Legere. I use a Legere signature on my Bflat clarinet. I've found Legere to be picky on which mouthpieces they work on. I've been using the same one since last December, and it is still going strong. Just recently used it in an orchestra concert where I played Ravel, Mendelssohn and the Carmen Suite No. 1 :D

[@RMutt-gw6uz]

What mouthpiece do you use?

[@fernie51296]

Dr. kid I use a Vandoren B40 13. I've tried lots of mouthpieces. Many costing three to four times the amount my Vandoren costs but I always go back to it.

[@pedromaldonado6362]

Do more bass clarinet lessons please

[@ClarinetMentors]

Thanks for the request. I'll put it on my list. Meanwhile, if you haven't checked out Michael Lowenstern's KZbin channel, please do. He has some great bass clarinet lessons.

[@pedromaldonado6362]

Ok I will

[@811birch]

Really great information Michelle. I am considering the Bass Clarinet.

[@no.1bf]

im starting the bass clarinet now, and ive just come from the regular clarinet. i tried playing some simple notes on the bass, but when i got down to the high and low Cs, it started squeaking. is there any tips on how to fix the squeaking problem? also how to play the lower notes on the bass?

[@ClarinetMentors]

+Olivia Kidd It sounds like you are "biting" on the reed. This is really common for clarinetists, because your mouth is trying to follow the habits it learned on your smaller clarinet mouthpiece. You need to open your mouth wider to get used to the bigger size. Bass clarinets often have leaky keys near the bottom of the instrument. It wouldn't hurt to have someone check it to make sure the keys are closing properly.

[@no.1bf]

thank you so much! this helped a ton, i can now play all the notes below a low D. :) i'm still working on how to get the higher ones tho, and how much air i need. thank u! its so much fun.

[@ripesoda7003]

@@ClarinetMentors this is helpful! I had the same problem, I just got mine today 😅 originally coming from a Bb clarinet I had become fasinated with these guys

[@Baboon4215]

This is a really nice explanation of the bass clarinet and I'm seriously considering starting to learn how to play it. I play Alto, Tenor and Soprano Saxophone and have wanted to broaden my horizons and start playing Clarinet--will check out your website.

[@ClarinetMentors]

Thanks Michael. Bass clarinet is really fun to play.

[@hollybaggett2230]

i play bass clairnet i have been playing for almost a month i think. i love it and your tips are really helpfull right now im about to go to a band concert with the bass for the first time on monday if you know what i mean.

[@emane9432]

I play bass clarinet

[@exiled_tuscani7660]

Emane cool I'm gonna buy one soon

[@exiled_tuscani7660]

amphitup_ working on it

[@exiled_tuscani7660]

amphitup_ I’m trying to get a allora low C bass clarinet only issue is they not in stock till next year

[@Nazinsky]

@@exiled_tuscani7660 Let me know when you buy one.

[@Nazinsky]

@@exiled_tuscani7660 Hey! How's it been?

[@oceaniwave]

I play Clarinet and would call myself a pretty good player. But I can't make a noise out of the Bass Clarinet. Any tips?

[@casamity6755]

i’ve just started on bass clarinet, coming from a Bb and tenor sax background - most of it is fine, i think the sax really helped with my bottom register but i’m really struggling to get a good sound without any squeaking in the upper clarion register - does anyone know what i’m doing wrong/how to fix this issue? i’ve tested several techniques from this video and a few others and had no luck

[@aaronchang8402]

Is it okay to join the Clarinet Mentors even if I play the saxophone?

[@bookerevans8316]

thanks...never had that problem with Bb or bass...will look into it

[@rosemaryquaye6479]

I'm about to learn bass clarinet coming from saxophones, excited but anxious about the fingering differences 😢

[@musikerman52]

Thanks for taking up the angle - with Selmer -type straighter neck is better to use the strap. Your fingers can work more relaxed. Buffet has a more upright-kind-of neck.

[@miasmaofsin6157]

This was very helpful at my school after spring break we are going to try out for bass clarinet

[@ClarinetMentors]

I hope that goes well. Bass clarinet can be very fun.

[@michelleboaler1660]

thanks michelle

[@manamebejessica]

I just started playing the Bass Clarinet (my friends joke around and call it the Saxinet because it looks like a sax and sounds like a clarinet lol) and I can normally get down to an E if I start at a C and scale down...but I can't start at the beginning of a bar with a low note, is there any tips to help with? I have a performance April 23 and this would be very helpful to know...thank you!

[@ClarinetMentors]

Jessica W This could be a couple of things... If you are getting a higher sound than you intend, you could be "biting" a bit on the reed. Relax your jaw, and round the corners of your mouth inward to have rounder lips on the mouthpiece. If you are getting no sound, but air is going through the instrument, it is possible that mechanically, you have a leaky key on your bottom joint. Bass clarinets are really susceptible to this. If you can have a more experienced player test it on their mouthpiece, or perhaps even demonstrate to your band teacher, you might be able to figure this out. I hope that helps.

[@manamebejessica]

Thank you, I actually tried the mouthing in another one of ur videos and the shape of my tongue actually did make a difference. I had to curl my tongue to fit the bottom of my mouth. Thank you!

[@edepillim]

I discern that to be a top of the range bass. I can see the tuning feature on the neck. My one doesn’t have this and only goes to Eb.

[@connorchen480]

will i get good quickly if I play an hour a day for a year?

[@katiefornuto237]

If you develop good habits, (it’s recommended you get an instructor), then you should improve alot!

[@Fire-ph7qn]

Yep

[@krane15]

You need to practice at least an hour all on your own in addition to tutor/class instruction. You'll get familiar with the instrument within a year (you won't run everybody out of the house). It take 1-2 of break-in. After that, the real learning starts.

[@ronaldthomas74]

I own a Leblanc - Vito B flat bass clarinet model 7168 - L 7166 ,,,, Reed Rico unfiled .... # 2 .... very old school !!!!!

[@amymcmahon8561]

I am using my older sisters and one thing I use for my bass clarinet Is taut tummy. My question is how do you get the octive key an octive higher on an F note? I can't get it to play correctly. If anything can u post a video on it to help others as well?

[@brianlittleton4714]

Michele, was nice to see you with the bass clarinet today the bass clarinet today, Gives some thought as to us that are playing a number of instruments. Do I want to stretch out that far?

[@ClarinetMentors]

How big is your closet? I have the impression that you have quite a collection, Brian. The bass clarinet is really fun though...

[@brianlittleton4714]

I just was inspired to say something more for us to consider.Two soprano saxws, trombone. trumpet, cornet, and flugal horn plus French horn. I've discovered to my dismay that Iv'e run out of room with all those training books in the room too. It's a 11'x11'. Pretty packed I'd think, but I'm not at a standstill, just thinking about accomodating

[@miru6705]

My bass clarinets name is Billy bob - Billy Bob the Bass Clarinet. He can be a jerk at times.

[@samibatescoff1619]

How drastic is it going to this instrument from coming a Tenor Saxophone?

[@GrandMasterPainter]

I think you'll find that it if very similar(range wise) though as she said the fingering is a bit different,

[@kaylasmith5161]

i absolutely love playing the bass clarinet I've played it for a year and a half and next year I'm being put on a contra alto clarinet

[@bobbyxu7704]

Does anyone have an instruction video for bass clarinet for new learners that have never used a woodwind instrument?

[@notme9842]

I switched my instrument from alto sax to bass clarinet and I will get it tomorrow because I have already signed the forms to take it home and my band teacher is very strict (also I’m the only one playing bass clarinet so if I mess up u know) so like I am really worried

[@ClarinetMentors]

Many of your alto sax skills will transfer to bass clarinet. Although it can be scary to be the only person on your instrument, it can also be fun to have a unique voice. Most people aren't paying attention to other people's mistakes. I suggest you just focus on learning the new fingering, and trust that within a month or so, you will sound great. Plus, band teachers LOVE a good bass clarinetist!

[@notme9842]

Clarinet Mentors (Michelle Anderson) thank you for your response it was very heart warming

[@critncarter3562]

on the b flat clarinet there are three keys for your little finger on the left and four on the right. but on bass clarinet there are six on the right and 5 I believe on the left. does this mean some notes are different or not?

[@nickyg7726]

Yes. Some bass clarinets (usually the higher end ones) go down to a low c (and octave below 3 finger c)

[@bookerevans8316]

Hi; Saw your video and want to ask if you have knowledge of transitioning from bass clarinet to the alto/tenor clarinet. I thought that this would be easier but it is a squeaky experience. Have you heard of this before? Ted

[@ClarinetMentors]

+Booker Evans - If the alto clarinet is squeaking, it could be a few different things. First of all, the mouthpiece could be chipped or warped - this will result in squeaking in all registers of the instrument. Your reed could be too soft, which can cause squeaking. It could also be that you are "biting" a bit on the mouthpiece. Try bringing the corners of your mouth in more to prevent this. I hope that helps! If only some notes are squeaking (and it is consistent) then it could be a mechanical issue - a pad that is not closing properly.

[@GrandMasterPainter]

I love your bass clarinet!! What make and model it it?? I started briefly on clarinet, then transitioned to bass clarinet as my main instrument, I don't personally own a bass clarinet, so it's been a few years since I have played one, and I miss it soooo much!! I do however play and own my own clarinet. You should do more bass clarinet videos, as I said that is a beautiful clarinet you have.

[@madisonroberts8106]

I'm in cms band and this don't look like a normal clarinet

[@ClarinetMentors]

There are some bass clarinets that extend down to a low C, rather than an Eb. That is what I have in the video. Same beast, just plays a bit lower.

[@star_written4835]

I'm about to switch to bass clarinet. I'm excited, but oofle woofle. It feels weird to not have a tight embouchure like you do with the clarinet.

[@alyelder4514]

I keep thinking about a bass c. Love the sound. I play a Bb at the mo, aiming for grade 4 so perhaps a bit early maybe? I do also play in a local concert band though. Thanks for this video however. Definitely seems possible.

[@ClarinetMentors]

Hi Aly, It is much easier to learn bass clarinet if you already have a good grounding on the regular clarinet. The basic concepts are very similar, you just need to adjust to the larger size. I think whenever you have the opportunity, you will do just fine.

[@johncrafton8319]

My fifth-grader has been asked by his band director if he would like to switch from Bb clarinet to bass clarinet. He's excited about it, but I have to wonder what might cause him to stumble. So far, it sounds like he'll need to get used to using more air, different voicing, and a larger mouthpiece. Are the fingerings farther apart? Are there any other major differences he might run into?

[@nickyg7726]

More air, thats the key difference. Also, physically, he might have a hard time getting to each key if his hands are small, he might find the angle of the neck uncomfortable, and it needs to not leak. (or at least leak very little) Also, its a lot bigger than clarinet, so lugging it around is a real pain. Now for you as a parent, the next thing is cost. EVERYTHING is more expensive on bass clarinet. you can get cheap products, and they'll make a sound, but if you want your child to have fun, (and have a nice sound) your going to need to invest in some vandoren products (reeds, mostly, but a vandoren mouthpiece is great!) Give him some good equipment, time, and some music, and he'll be right on his merry way!

[@krane15]

You're kids ban director should be a good judge on whether its a good fit for you son. Still, the unique thing about the clarinet is that when you learn one you basically learn them all. So if your son want to switch back in HS, he can easily do so with only a slight bit of effort.

[@jonregan3236]

I play both the regular Bb Clarinet and the Tenor Saxophone, and want to play Bass Clarinet in high school.

[@ClarinetMentors]

+Darth Bacon That should be a natural good fit for you since the fingering is the same as clarinet, and the mouthpiece size is similar to the tenor sax. Good luck with it!

[@allyjay1876]

Very helpful thanks

[@cillblinton8181]

What if you are coming from a triangle background 0-o

[@ClarinetMentors]

Then you are really good at hitting things with care. Although sometimes we feel like doing this to bass clarinets, it is not generally recommended. Having said that, bass clarinet is really fun to play, and you'd probably enjoy it.

[@numbera1136]

what if your coming to a bari sax background

[@johnayton4234]

I went clarinet - tenor sax - bari sax - bass clarinet. Bari-Bass was the easiest transition.

[@woodstock8908]

Bass clarinet is way more resistant because of the angle of the neck but that’s the biggest difference. Saxophones are just super freeblowing. This is just my experience as a bass clarinet/ Bari player.

[@radosam8415]

I'm a woodwind doubler and I've had my experiences with legere Reed. I like them for long pit shows but I think they lack the nuance in harmonics for something like jazz

[@CarlyLynneN]

What mouthpiece(s) do you recommend for a "little" clarinet player playing bass clarinet?

[@emjay2045]

Vandoren 5RV , 5RV Lyre, M13 Lyre., B40 Lyre. Hawkins R model

[@kaylapadua3175]

Quick question what is the difference with the notes for the alto sax and bass clarinet?

[@ClarinetMentors]

Alto sax and bass clarinet have different fingerings. There are some similarities, but you do need to learn a slightly different set of notes. Also, bass clarinet plays in the key of Bb, and alto sax is in Eb, so a "C" will come out quite differently.

[@shawngoet4393]

Hi, I switched from clarinet to bass, and I was wondering how to keep my bass in tune correctly

[@TooSlowTube]

That's interesting about the angles you can hold them at. I'd pictured more of an alpenhorn angle, with the bell further away. I've been wondering - do you get water collecting in the bottom of the first bend of the neck as you play?

[@ClarinetMentors]

TooSlowTube I don't find the water ever gets in the way of playing, although I do clean it out fairly regularly. The angle is worth experimenting with since everyone has a different comfort spot.

[@Ethan-on7iz]

Do you think I'd be too short to play a low C as a 4'11 person? I kind of need the low C though

[@Toledo2bateacher]

Nice video. My community band does not have a bass clarinet I played for 3 semesters in college with bass clarinet. I have been out of college for 7 years playing tuba, alto sax, trombone, and French horn. I am getting a bass clarinet from one of the older members that stopped playing. Do you have any recommendations to switch from mostly brass back to bass clarinet?

[@gangifreek17]

I'm coming back around I played clarinet from 5th grade till 8th grade and I did for one semester or have school year play base clarinet and i minis playing one I still have my b flat clarinet and I want to relearn it

[@julhariz749]

Can I play Bass Clarinet without play in 1st clarinet before I play the bass clarinet?

[@ClarinetMentors]

You can play bass clarinet anytime. Some people choose this as their beginner instrument, before they play other clarinets, and do very well with it. It is a fun instrument to learn.

[@talbotvanman]

Go for it Hariz . Its a wonderful instrument I wish I had discovered it years ago !

[@wellysboots7923]

Yes it was the first instrument I learnt

[@dirara.]

Yup, i play the bass clarinet and its my first instrument

[@GameroftheWinds]

Hi Michelle! I just started playing the bass clarinet and I was wondering if you knew what the double octave key system is and how it helps facilitate the clarion? I looked on forums and Im not sure how I would know if my bass has one. Your bass had this key on the neck which mine doesnt, im playing on a Yamaha YCL-221 so im not sure. If I dont have one of these systems what would you recommend I do and what would I experience differently in terms of playability? Its strange, right now the clarion is ok as long as I voice properly but the first written C on the ledger lines is near impossible to play unless I use an alternate fingering. Thanks!

[@izakveals7774]

thanks

[@daviswetter]

I play horn but want to double on something like Bari sax or bass clarinet

[@ClarinetMentors]

They are actually kind of similar in how they play. It is probably a matter of what you like the sound of best. Both can be tremendous fun.

[@kaylasmith5161]

oh and do u know by chance if the contra alto clarinet have the same fingering as the bass clarinet and the Bb clarinet

[@GrandMasterPainter]

Pretty much all clarinets have the same fingerings, it's just when you start getting the additional keys( for example the extra bass clarinet keys, that the Bb clarinets do not have) is when you'll have different fingerings

[@AlfredoRodriguez-oq1ee]

I just started learning how to play clarinet about a month ago but i practice a few hours a day and I've improved a lot and I want to play bass clarinet. My parents said that i could get one fro my birthday (which is in June) or i can get a new clarinet because mine is really cheap and it would be awesome to get a new one. What do you think i should do? Is it too soon to start playing bass clarinet? and when should i start?

[@nickyg7726]

It's never too soon to learn bass, but, if your playing in an ensemble on soprano clarinet, then upgrade your soprano clarinet.

[@krane15]

@@nickyg7726 Great advice. Hopefully that's what he did. I think its always best to gain proficiency on the soprano clarinet an add to the family from there.

[@slytherinpride1022]

What about the ligature I took it of and now when I put it back on. With a reed it doesn't stay it moves when I touch the bottum

[@amymcmahon8561]

Tighten it tighter than u have it cuz it is too loose

[@slytherinpride1022]

Amy McMahon I tried and it still doesn't work,......I'm curesed

[@wellysboots7923]

Bass clarinet is the first instrument I ever learnt and I've been playing for 3 years now

[@ClarinetMentors]

I really enjoy bass clarinet. I'm sure the groups you play with are happy to have that rich sound in the group.

[@PhilipVegaR]

Hey Michelle what eb clarinet reeds do you recommend I know you use Bb but if you had to use Eb reeds which ones would you use?

[@bigdaddy2435]

I've played clarinet for 3 years and I'm the only clarinet player in my band. I'm not sure if I should consider bass clarinet. Would the band be unbalanced if I left b flat clarinet?

[@ClarinetMentors]

You may want to ask your band director what he or she thinks about that. It would be a fairly easy transition for you to change if you decide to. In a traditional concert band, the bass clarinet often plays with the bassoons, bari saxes, tubas and other low instruments. That would be a factor in the overall balance of your group.

[@ranatlas]

Hi, Michelle - I love your videos. I play the Bb clarinet - picked it up again after not having played for about 30 years! Then I bought a bass clarinet and found it very challenging to play so I will try your suggestions. Thank you. Do you have any videos in which you address the registers and moving from one to another, etc? Also, the person I bought the bass clarinet from sold me a different type of neck because I told him I'm used to using a Bb embouchure. I forgot what that neck is called but he said it should help me. Any thoughts on this? Thank you again.

[@krane15]

We're in the same boat. I always wanted to switch to BC in HS but they were always in the repair shop.

[@ahdri]

I am currently a Flute player, and I really want to switch over to Bass Clarinet. Would you say that would be a bad idea, considering I've never played a Clarinet?

[@ClarinetMentors]

+Bean Chan The fingerings are pretty similar to flute, so you have a head start on a beginner for sure. Just be prepared to learn a new embouchure. Many people play all of the woodwind instruments, so it is definitely something you can learn to do. I recommend looking at some good videos to ensure that you are starting with the best habits. You should looks at Michael Lowenstein's bass clarinet videos on KZbin. They are excellent.

[@ahdri]

+Clarinet Mentors (Michelle Anderson) Alright, I will do! ^^ Thanks so much ~

[@jeresa99]

I did this same switch and the only thing that was hard was the embouchure and getting use to the resistance. The flute had a more open air way. The notes are easy to get down especially over the break because the fingerings are VERY similar to the flute's staff notes.

[@ClarinetMentors]

From a fingering point of view, they are cousins! I hope you enjoy the bass!

[@ahdri]

Coming back to this now a year later, I have played my bass for quite some time. I really enjoy the switch and my band director says I have great control of my instrument. Thank you so much for all the help and tips!!

[@Amy-cw6qs]

I got moved to bass after playing soprano Bb for 7 years and I have a major solo with articulation and high notes combined that I'm just not getting . My biggest fear is completely messing up at our concert.

[@krane15]

Stage fright. You just have to practice in front of an audience.

[@JoyboyAnDiaGrian]

Do you prefer tenor sax, alto sax, or bass clarinet? I've been been playing clarinet, which would be easiest and sounds best?

[@ClarinetMentors]

Travis Ebert You should probably choose based upon the sound you like best, and the kind of group you want to play with (if you are joining other musicians). The bass clarinet has the same fingering as clarinet, so would be easiest in that sense, but the saxophone fingerings are pretty straightforward to learn. Many people play both sax and clarinet.

[@johnpiettro4644]

Hello. Last time I tried to pick up a bass clarinet and learn to play it I encountered a problem playing the clarion register right above the break. It just didn't sound right. The sound was stuffy and very faint. The low register worked fine and upper clarion notes began to liven up but that part right above the break (approx half of an octave as far as I remember) was out of alignment with everything else. Someone told me then it's hard on bass but I still don't know if it's true. I played regular clarinet fine at that time.

[@krane15]

You need to sit with someone experienced to help diagnose your problem. Could be you, could be the instrument e.g., reed/mouth piece, etc. I suspect a key seal issue. The bc keys are easy to get bent out of alignment and not seal properly. Or the pads could just be worn out.

[@cheeseitz6663]

I have a claranet a b flat claranet I go to band and my favorite note is g

[@brookefuller895]

same it's so simple lol

[@jadenklein9234]

does the plastic read break??

[@ClarinetMentors]

+Jaden Klein Hi Jaden - the plastic reeds are much more durable than cane ones. However, I did break one once by accident, so it can happen. Overall, they last quite bit longer than a cane reed.

[@synapsis1213]

Cool!

[@martinkoehler4112]

Bingo! Right topic at the perfect moment - starting next week with bass clarinet. How did you know ...?! Low C from big B(erlin) :-)

[@ClarinetMentors]

Hmmm - My sources in Germany are obviously doing a good job! I bet you'll love it Martin! You are ideally suited to sound good on the bass. Have fun.

[@cavan3]

Thanks

[@ClarinetMentors]

+Cavan Stewart I'm glad that you enjoyed this video!

[@micaelahassler1121]

I recently switched from clarinet to bass clarinet, I have been having trouble with the higher notes. top line G and above because they become squeaky. Any tips?

[@ClarinetMentors]

+Micaela Calfy It is really easy to "bite" on the mouthpiece coming from a smaller clarinet mouthpiece. You could work on just opening your mouth wider, and bringing the corners of your mouth in to make an "oo" shape. Then, you need to use more air than on the little clarinet. Usually squeaking is from biting. You will get used to it. Also, ensure that you put lots of mouthpiece in your mouth (which, although makes you more likely to bite, will allow more of the reed to vibrate).

[@daniellemus3145]

I have a concern. I will be switching to Bass Clarinet for highschool but I'm afraid that the embouchure is very different from a Bb clarinet.

[@krane15]

Slightly different, not very different. Like anything new, you get used to it. Just keep practicing. Before you know it you can switch back and forth without even thinking about it. I played clarinet and trombone. Now that was VERY different and took some getting used to. Hope you're still playing.

[@dlemus5381]

@@krane15 It took me a while to get used to playing/marching it but I made top band (: I don't think I have the courage to learn brass instruments. Specially not a trombone

[@krane15]

@@dlemus5381 I understand. Its not common for someone to cross between woodwind and brass. I just always admired the power and forward presence of the trombone and wanted to at least sample it, although I was never very good at it. As for marching, I had a terrible time getting used to playing while marching in the beginning. I though it was impossible at first, but others were doing it so I kept trying and eventually got the hang of it. I also made it to first chair and then section leader in HS, but that position came with responsibilities that turned out to be more trouble than it was worth. Since the section leader is also responsible for the quality of their sections players, I generally took the heat for their lack of practice. As you probably already know, the clarinet is arguable the most challenging instrument in a band to learn how to play. We seldom ever take rests.

[@ojii8592]

Could someone help me? Somehow I can't play low notes on the bass clarinet,

[@ClarinetMentors]

It could be that you are "biting" a bit on the reed which pinches off the sound. It could be that your air needs to be stronger. However, bass clarinets are notorious for getting out of adjustment as well. You could have a key leaking somewhere in the bottom part of the instrument. It may be worth having it checked out.

[@ojii8592]

@@ClarinetMentors Yeah, there was a leak

[@WistfulShion]

Hello! I normally play Soprano Clarinet for my high school band, and I plan to play Bass for pit orchestra for a high school play. I currently play on a Rue Lepic 3,5 (not +), and my teacher recommended me to purchase a Legere for Bass. The problem is, i don't know what size I should get, as i normally don't play Bass. Do you have any suggestions to what size reed I should get?

[@ClarinetMentors]

+MachoTaco000 It is a little hard to say since each mouthpiece requires a different strength. However, if I were to guess, I would say a 2.75. I find the Legere reeds run a bit stiff, so that would be like a 3 on bass clarinet, which is what many people play. We usually go to softer reeds on bass. Legere will let you exchange your reed if the strength is not right for you.

[@joelpanas4697]

What would you say about doing this for high school Concert Band? I'm a Sophmore and I normally play Clarinet.

[@ClarinetMentors]

It is pretty easy to switch from Bb clarinet to bass clarinet. You need to adjust to using more air, and a bigger mouthpiece, but the fingerings are identical.