Clarinet

As Printed on a Score

Clarinet (plural Clarinets) labels the clarinet staff in English-language scores, abbreviated Cl. or Clar., with its key: Clarinet in B♭, in A, in C, in E♭. Read the key before the notes: in B-flat the written pitch sounds a whole step lower, in A a minor third lower. A change of instrument is written into the part, with rests to make it.

Abbreviations: Cl., Clar.

Also spelled: Clarinets, B♭ Clarinet, A Clarinet, C Clarinet, Bb Clarinet, Clarinet in B♭, Clarinet in A, Clarinet in C

How Composers Use It

Write for the B-flat clarinet by default and the A clarinet for sharp keys, or when you need the low written E to sound C-sharp. The clarinet has the widest dynamic range of the woodwinds, from a breathless pianissimo to a strong forte, and three distinct registers: dark chalumeau, a weaker throat around written G to B-flat, bright clarion and brilliant altissimo above. Avoid fast passages that cross the break repeatedly when writing for less experienced players.

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