There is an inherent difference in timbre between the 'A' clarinet and the 'Bb' clarinet. In short, the 'A' clarinet is intended for pieces with sharp notes, while the 'Bb' clarinet is intended for pieces with flat notes.
The pitch of the two instruments differs by a semitone.
Since the 'A' clarinet possesses a deep, sonorous sound, it is used for quiet pieces, whilst the 'Bb' clarinet has a bright sound and is used for dances and stirring pieces.
The composer specifies which clarinet is to be used, and the musical score reveals that the 'A' clarinet plays three sharp notes. Playing pieces in the key of A major using an 'A' clarinet is straightforward, as the instrument's basic scale is A, with these three sharp notes. It is also easy to play pieces in D major (which has two sharp notes) and E major (which has four sharp notes) on the instrument, as these include only a single flat note or single sharp note on the clarinet score. Conversely, since the 'Bb' clarinet starts out with two flat notes already, it is good for playing pieces that include several flat notes, as indicated by the 'b' on the left hand side of the score.
In short, the 'A' clarinet is intended for pieces with sharp notes, while the 'Bb' clarinet is intended for pieces with flat notes. Although it is a little hard to imagine, as a result of this clarinetists take to the stage with both an 'A' clarinet and a 'Bb' clarinet, and switch between them to suit the different pieces they play.
All models in the Odyssey range of high quality brass band and orchestral instruments have been meticulously designed down to the finest details by Peter Pollard. It’s hardly surprising that, with over 50 years experience and having listened to the ‘wants’ of countless high profile musicians, this master craftsman is one of the most sought after custom brass and woodwind builders in the world.
The Odyssey Premiere 'A' Clarinet is a favourite with musicians and teachers around the world and has been designed by Peter Pollard to be easy blowing, with great tonality and exceptional playability.
The response and intonation are based on the expectations of teachers and experienced players. Materials have been carefully chosen to enhance the sound and playability of the instrument and the highest quality European pads and springs are used. For the more advanced student the OCL3500A Ebony bodied Clarinet, comparable to instruments a class above, offers a wide tonal sound – richer and warmer.
As a company producing some of the world’s finest brasswind instruments, Odyssey recognise the fact that protection whilst travelling with a delicate instrument is paramount. To ensure players can maintain a high standard with this instrument, Odyssey has included gloves, cleaning cloth and cork grease. A Zero-gravity ‘backpack’ hard foam canvas covered, plush lined, double case with shoulder straps, to carry the Odyssey OCL3500A, with space for a second instrument (OCL500 Odyssey Premiere 'Bb' ebony body Clarinet recommended), takes all the worry out of commuting with such a delicate instruments.
Specification
• Imported Ebony body
• Tenon rings
• Adjustable thumb rest
• Mouthpiece and cap
• BG – L4SR Super Revelation Ligature
• High quality Italian pads
• Steel rods and screws
• Silver plated key work
• Zero-gravity ‘backpack’ hard foam, plush lined, canvas covered double instrument case with shoulder straps
• Accessories: Gloves, cleaning cloth, cork grease
Taking proper care of your instrument will also help you produce the best sound quality possible, we recommend Odyssey and Ultra-Pure brand accessories.
Odyssey Brasswind is designed and created by UK Master Craftsman Peter Pollard and the UK Odyssey design team.
