Bass clarinet

The bass clarinet is a musical instrument of the clarinet family. Like standard clarinets, it is usually pitched in B flat (meaning it is a transposing instrument where a written C sounds as B flat), and plays notes an octave below the "normal" B flat clarinet and an octave above the Contrabass clarinet.

Related Topics:
Musical instrument - Clarinet - Transposing instrument - Contrabass clarinet

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The instrument is heavy and has a removable floor stand attached to its body. Some models have segments in their bodies, making them look similar to bassoons, while most are straight-bodied with a small upturned bell. While sometimes mistaken for a large saxophone, the bass clarinet has a bore which is basically the same diameter along the body of the instrument. This cylindrical bore gives it the clarinet's dark tone and low pitch.

Related Topics:
Bassoon - Saxophone

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While the range of the soprano clarinet ends at a low E, most bass clarinets have a low E flat. Some models have an extended range and can play to a low C.

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