Bass Clarinets

The bass clarinet is an instrument that has definitely enjoyed its share of the limelight. The Beatles used the bass clarinet in their song “When I’m Sixty Four” and much of the Twilight Zone television series was scored with this straight bodied instrument. The bass clarinet dominates the score of 30 Rock while West Side Story features its rich, earthy tones in two duets – “A Boy Like That” and “I Have a Love.” When looking for a bass clarinet, your decision should be based on what this woodwind instrument is being used for. A popular choice for school bands or jazz clubs is the Yamaha YCL-221 Student Bass Clarinet with Low Eb. It’s lightweight yet durable which is convenient when transporting from home to rehearsal. A redesigned neck angle also provides a more comfortable and natural playing position. The Allora AABC-304 Bass Clarinet is another great choice. It’s includes a wooden case, mouthpiece, cap and ligature and is ideal for home, on the marching field or on the concert stage.

For professional playing, the Selmer Paris Model 67 Professional Low C Bass Clarinet is an exceptional choice. This instrument easily projects through any string section or concert band with its big, focused sound that ranges to low C. The Yamaha YCL-621 Low Eb Professional Bass Clarinet is another excellent option. The floor peg and tuning part of the neck are easy to adjust, the keys are well placed and the sound is exactly what you’d expect from a quality instrument needed for orchestral playing.

Whether you’ve just started playing in a school band or have played professionally for years, choosing to own a bass clarinet rather than renting one is a big decision. With a variety of musical ranges and skill levels to consider, you’re sure to find a bass clarinet that is perfect for you.