Types of Clarinet

As with other instruments, developments in manufacturing have produced many kinds of clarinet. Common types include the following:

Clarinet in B-flat

This clarinet is widely used in orchestras, bands and jazz groups. Its broad range, described here as approximately four octaves, makes it suitable for many styles. It is called the B-flat clarinet because its written C sounds at the pitch of B-flat on a piano.

Clarinet in G

Widely used in Turkish music, this instrument is also called the Turkish clarinet. Its construction and range suit that tradition well. The article credits Klarnet-i İbrahim Efendi with introducing the clarinet into traditional Turkish music. It is called the G clarinet because its written C sounds at the pitch of G on a piano.

Clarinet in E-flat

The E-flat clarinet is a small member of the clarinet family with a high, bright sound. It is used in bands and wind ensembles. It takes its name from its written C sounding as E-flat on a piano.

Clarinet in A

The A clarinet is often used in symphony orchestras. It is slightly longer than the B-flat clarinet because it sounds a semitone lower, and it has a mellow tone. It is also used in Greek and Balkan music. Its name comes from its written C sounding at the pitch of A on a piano.

Alto clarinet

The alto clarinet is pitched in E-flat and sounds an octave below the small E-flat clarinet. It is used in ensembles, including smaller groups.

Bass clarinet

The bass clarinet is usually in B-flat and sounds an octave below the B-flat soprano clarinet. Its weight is supported by a peg attached to the instrument. Bass clarinets in A also exist.

Oğuzcan Selimler
Rekor Sanat – Clarinet Teacher