Re: Albert clarinets?

[Asissel <Asissel...>]

I am fairly certain (but not 100%) that Merlin plays on an Albert System C 
clarinet.  Kurt Bjorling uses the Boehm C.  It really is informative when 
this information is included in liner notes, which is not always the case.  

The bore or inside diameter of the C clarinet is narrower than a B-flat and 
has a different feel than the B-flat.  Also, the keys are closer together 
which can be a problem if you have large fingers.  Also, you probably will 
have to experiment with barrels, mouthpieces and reeds.

There are many different opinions as to which is better for playing klezmer.  
It seems to depend on either the sound preferred or the key one prefers to 
play in.  A lot of the old klezmer bands recorded in the early 20th century 
used E-flat clarinets, which produced the very high pitched chirping sounds.  
Di Naye Kapelye uses one on their CD.  The B-flat has a mellower sound than 
the C and has been much more prevalent in the U.S.  
I think Tarras used an Albert B-flat which Statman now uses.

There is an advantage to the C for playing in E freygish for example as 
opposed to F-sharp, but many people believe that there is no reason or 
requirement to play in an awkward key just because an old recording sounded 
like it was played in that key.
So why not play the B-flat in a more comfortable key?  Also, certain 
ornaments become much more difficult to nearly impossible if played on a 
B-flat in the key of F-sharp, for example.  

If you simply prefer the more piercing sound of the C, than play the C. 

If anyone can substantiate the different styles and keys of clarinets the 
best players past and present use(d), I would be interested.

Alan Sisselman








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