Bass Clarinet Help

[Gary Markham]

I picked up an old Leblanc Bass Clarinet off of ebay, overhauled it and I am ready to start to learn how to play. I have been playing saxophone for several years, and started playing the soprano clarinet about a year ago.

I have some pretty basic questions, and would appreciate any additional help provided.

1. How do you hold the bass clarinet? Out in front or to the side?

2. How do you use the half hole key?

[Merlin]

Bass clarinet is held in front, between the legs. Holding at the side will cause problems with keys hitting your leg.

The half hole is used for third register notes; from high C# (C#3) on up. You simply slide your finger off the small hole onto the tab. It accomplishes the same effect as partially uncovering the LH first finger on Bb clarinet.

[Gary Markham]

I forgot to mention/ask.

This clarinet did not come with a floor peg. Would this be worth installing?

[mike]

I certainly like playing from a peg, but also use a neckstrap for added stability. I also didn't care for the position of the RH thumb hook, and didn't need it with both the strap and the peg so I removed it. When necessary, I can play standing with just the strap. You might try this if you find that you have RH thumb problems.

[Anji]

Floor pegs may be most easily installed at the bell.

If the double neck strap doesn't provide sufficient support, you could prop the bell on an inverted Tupperware food storage bowl.

No reason you couldn't play the instrument off to your side, if you can reach all the keys.

I prefer to play with it directly in front of me, so I don't need to bend my elbows much.

[RS]

I play my bass (Selmer low C model) off to the side and use a floor peg and two neckstraps. I use the second strap because I occasionally like to play while standing and the extra strap is like an insurance policy. In any event whether you hold the horn in front or on the side it's a good idea to use both the floor peg and a strap(s).

[Draconistarum]

All of our bass clarinets have an adjustable stand to hold the thing up. No one ever used a neckstrap.