Backun Alternate Fingerings

Backun Alternate Fingerings Volume 3, Altissimo Range Introduction The purpose of this booklet is to maintain our collective curiosity about the myriad of ways to be expressive with the clarinet. There have been many books on fingerings printed in the past. Hopefully, there will be many more in the future. However, if you are able to find even one of these fingerings useful, the mission of this booklet will be accomplished. More than anything, we would like to encourage you to use your imagination to further expand on the information given. There are several pages in the back of this booklet with blank fingering diagrams for you to record your own alternate fingerings, or to share with your colleagues. It should also be noted that some fingerings may vary in effectiveness, depending on the brand of instrument and mouthpiece played, and ultimately, on the ability and sensitivity of you, the artist. How to Use This Booklet The highlighted tone holes are those that need to be covered. Please keep in mind that, at times, alternate fingerings will call for semi-closed tone holes. The highlighted keys are the ones that need to be actuated. It is very important to understand that while having alternate fingerings is useful, they are only as useful as one’s level of musicianship and sensitivity enables them to be. This is a guide to encourage critical musical thinking and, as such, it should remind us to think of the clarinet as a tool of expression About Altissimo Fingerings The following altissimo register fingerings work very well, provided that the proper voicing on the clarinet is used. For our purposes, the definition of proper clarinet voicing is the combination of a high tongue position and fast air stream, along with a firm yet flexible embouchure. Many instruments of the past have had acoustical maladies that made the upper register, beginning with clarion A, tune sharp. That has required players to lower the tongue position and slow down the air speed to compensate for the shortcomings in tuning. Making all those adjustments will contribute to an unsteady embouchure, loss of control of the intonation and deterioration of the quality of tone. The completely re- engineered bore and tone hole designs found on Lumière, CG Carbon, and other Backun Clarinets virtually eliminate the shortcomings found on other clarinets.

CG Carbon™ The future and beyond

The world’s most technologically advanced clarinet, the CG Carbon features a body crafted from carbon fibre with an exotic wood core. Using a patent pending process, carbon fibre is fused to the precision machined core, resulting in a clarinet with the robust projection and unmatched intonation that Backun is known for. Years of material analysis and real-world testing have proven the fusion process can endure wide-ranging temperatures and humidity conditions without expansion or contraction of the clarinet body. Tonally, the playing characteristics stay true to that of a wooden clarinet with the new Backun Scale. This signature model, designed for Maestro Corrado Giuffredi, represents a giant leap into the future… and beyond.

Available in B♭ and A, unstained grenadilla or cocobolo body with gold or silver keywork.

Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Introduction & CG Carbon Clarinet @backunmusical - 2 Fingerings for Altissimo G♯

1. A simple, yet very effective fingering. It responds well at all 3. A nicely centered, covered and in-tune fingering. dynamics. It has a slightly brighter tone and some players Example: Weber, Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E♭ Major, Op. 74, may voice it high, but with the variations it remains a versatile Second Mvt. – m57 fingering. Spohr, Clarinet Concerto No. 3, WoO 19, First Mvt. – m81 Example: Messager, Solo de Concours – Cadenza Messager, Solo de Concours – Cadenza 2. This chromatic A can be a little low on the B clarinet. However, ♭ ♭ 4. This fingering works well in scale work. *The C /G key can help it works well on the A clarinet. ♯ ♯ raise the pitch if voicing the note seems low. Example: Ravel, Daphnis et Chloé – Four measures after Rehearsal 219 Example: Messager, Solo de Concours – Cadenza Messager, Solo de Concours – Cadenza Strauss, Till Eulenspiegel’s Merry Pranks, Op. 28 – Seven measures after Rehearsal 35

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Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Altissimo G♯ @backunmusical - 3 Fingerings for Altissimo A

1/1a. Of the two, 1a is preferable for its ability to slur well. Fingering 1a 2a. This fingering works better on the A clarinet. also corrects intonation if a player prefers lighter reeds. Example: Ravel, Daphnis et Chloé – Five measures after Rehearsal 219 Example: Widor, Introduction et Rondo, Op. 72 – Nineteen measures after Più 3. This fingering slurs very well and plays in tune. Depending on Largo the voicing, it can play a little low. Saint-Saëns, Clarinet Sonata, Op. 167, Fourth Mvt. – m105 Example: Rossini, Introduction, Theme and Variations for Clarinet – 2. This is a preferred A fingering for the B♭ clarinet. Three measures before Allegretto Example: Rossini, Theme and Variations for Clarinet, Introduction – Fourteen Bozza, Bucolique – Two measures before Rehearsal 1 measures before Allegretto

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Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Altissimo A @backunmusical - 4 Lumière™ The evolution of Backun

The Lumière takes the clarinet to a level of breathtaking clarity and focus from the highest altissimo down through the low register. Less is more, as the Lumière flaunts European flair with uncompromising intonation and fluidity. Completely redesigned from the bell up, and the first clarinet to feature the new Backun Scale, this custom clarinet is a perfect match for those who desire the highest quality playing experience in a more traditional French-style instrument.

Available in B♭ and A, unstained grenadilla or cocobolo body with gold or silver keywork, or silver keys with gold posts.

Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Lumière Clarinet @backunmusical - 5 Fingerings for Altissimo B♭

The next few fingerings are the most sensitive and susceptible to 2. Similar in application to Fingering 1, but easier to slur. voicing variations, embouchure and reed strength. 3. Considered the “Long B♭“ fingering. It is best used in louder dynamics and tends to be direct, centered and bright. 1. This fingering works in most situations, including slurs and dynamic variations. Depending on one’s voicing, minor Example: Weber, Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E♭ Major, Op. 74, First Mvt. – m241 adjustments for pitch can be achieved with the F♯/C♯ key, or the sliver key. This is notated in Fingering 1a.

Example: Weber, Clarinet Concerto No. 2 in E♭ Major, Op. 74, First Mvt. – m241 Spohr, Clarinet Concerto No. 2, Op. 57, First Mvt. – Eighteen measures before end of mvt.

Martino, A Set for Clarinet, First Mvt. (1a with F♯/C♯ key)

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Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Altissimo B♭ @backunmusical - 6 Q Series™ Classic feel and playability

The Q Series clarinet offers those who prefer a more traditional French-style instrument the chance to experience the world of Backun. We combine modern manufacturing techniques and treatments, including a carbon fibre middle joint ring, with naturally unstained grenadilla wood and brilliant silver-plated keywork to produce an instrument with truly familiar feel and playability. An affordable masterpiece, the Q Series is the classic choice.

Available in B♭ and A, unstained grenadilla body, silver keywork.

Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Q Series Clarinet @backunmusical - 7 Fingerings for Altissimo B

1. The standard fingering. Responds well, but tends to be sharp. 4. More secure than Fingering 3, this is a good, solid fingering that Example: Martino, A Set for Clarinet, First Mvt. responds well, especially on wide leaps. This fingering is perfect for slurring up to altissimo B. You can also play this without the 1a. Similar to Fingering 1, this is less resistant but well focused. A♭/E♭ key if the intonation is too high, but doing so will increase 2. A warmer quality fingering that is lower in intonation. the resistance. 3. A fingering that is in tune and easy to slur up to, it has a darker quality, which makes it easy to match the flutes in orchestral playing. The optional G# will give you a quicker response, but will make the note sharper. Example: Berg, Wozzeck, Final Scene

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Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Altissimo B @backunmusical - 8 Alpha™ March to your own beat

The Alpha Clarinet is crafted from an ideal blend of synthetic materials for maximum resonance and durability. Designed to be the optimal indoor and outdoor student clarinet, it is at home in the classroom, on the concert stage, or on the marching field. Professionals and students alike count on the Alpha for performances where a wooden instrument might not be appropriate, thanks to its exceptionally light body, durable keywork and weather-resistant build that ensures years of lasting playability.

Available in B♭, proprietary synthetic body, silver or nickel keywork.

Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Alpha Clarinet @backunmusical - 9 Fingerings for High Altissimo C , C♯ , and D A Special Note These are suggested fingerings, but every player and instrument can produce different volumes, response and pitch on a given note. Be sure to explore as many options as you can to make them work for you. One of the more common suggestions for making these notes work is to try to remain as relaxed and open as possible with taking in a bit more reed and mouthpiece to produce such extreme altissimo notes on the clarinet. Players should always think about letting the reed vibrate further down the chin, rather than creating any undue pressure that may close-off the space between the mouthpiece and reed. The opening should remain as free as possible to create the optimum speed of reed vibration. Fingerings for High Altissimo C Continued from 3. in the previous column. Example: Ginastera, Variacoiones Concertantes, Rehearsal 24 1-2. The altissimo C is extremely delicate and is sensitive to voicing and reed strength. In Fingerings No. 1 and 1a, one can alternate Fingering for High Altissimo D the A♭/E♭ key for the F♯/C♯ key for individual comfort and response. While there are many other fingerings available, the 4. Alternate fingerings for High D are few and far between, but this one is a great all-around choice. emphasis for this select group is on practicality of use, as in the Spohr Concerti. The Ginastera example below is for A clarinet. Example: Ruders, Tattoo for One, Last measure Fingering for High Altissimo C ♯ Many players choose to play this on the A clarinet. 3. The High C♯ in the Ginastera Variations can be played on either Example: Ginastera, Variaciones Concertantes, Rehearsal 24 B♭ or A Clarinet, depending on your level of comfort. See below for the Bb version. 11 1111 1a1a1a1a1a1a 1b1b1b1b1b1b 22 2222 33 3333 44 4444 BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN BACKUN

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Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Altissimo C, C#, and D @backunmusical - 10 Backun Barrels & Bells

Lumière Barrel MoBa Barrel Fatboy Barrel E♭ Cutback Barrel

The Lumière Barrel offers a sweet, The MoBa Barrel produces an The Fatboy is at home in the world’s Backun E♭ Barrels feature a unique balanced tone with increased focus and unmistakable, full-bodied, dark sound most prestigious concert halls, famous cutback design that allows the use of projection that illuminates every corner that makes it a favourite amongst jazz clubs, and everywhere in between. B♭ clarinet reeds on an E♭ mouthpiece, of the concert hall. Elegant curves and orchestral players worldwide. With It’s our best-selling barrel, and for good without the need to trim them. Artists flowing design perfectly complement increased resistance and focus, and reason. Artists who are called upon love how this barrel improves intonation its sweet, refined character. Artists an unbelievable ease of articulation to interpret a wide variety of music and flexibility, while stabilizing the appreciate the incredible richness and throughout the entire range of the appreciate the Fatboy Barrel’s unique tone of the instrument throughout resonance of the Lumière Barrel for clarinet, this barrel is a great option for flexibility and versatility. Note: In Japan, all registers. Paired with the Backun chamber, solo, and orchestral playing. artists wanting a darker tone. Artists this model is known as the Backun E♭ Bell, this barrel really tames the prefer this barrel for orchestral repertoire. Barrel. savage beast

Available in grenadilla and cocobolo Available in grenadilla and cocobolo Available in grenadilla and cocobolo Available in grenadilla and cocobolo woods. Designed for both B♭ and woods. Designed for both B♭ and woods. Designed for both B♭ and woods. Designed to fit most E♭ clarinets. A clarinets. A clarinets. A clarinets.

Lumière Bell MoBa Bell E♭ Bell

The Lumière Bell features a unique Double Voicing Big halls are no match for the MoBa Bell, which is a Tuning the E♭ clarinet can be a major challenge, so we Groove (DVG) that improves intonation and stability in powerhouse well suited to orchestral and solo stages. designed a bell as fearless as most E♭ players. Adding the clarion register. A modestly sized bell set between With a taper unique to the MoBa product line, an yet another dimension of versatility to your impressive a carbon fibre tenon ring and a pronounced bell flair, integrated Voicing Groove, and a bold bell curve, the repertoire, the Backun E♭ Bell aligns the registers this wooden work of art is a musical sculpture that MoBa Bell offers players exceptional versatility and and delivers a warm tonal centre to your sound. The allows the clarinet to sing. projection. Backun Voicing Groove is standard on all E♭ Bells.

Available in grenadilla and cocobolo woods.Designed Available in grenadilla and cocobolo woods.Designed Available in grenadilla and cocobolo woods.Designed for both B♭ and A clarinets. for both B♭ and A clarinets. for both B♭ and A clarinets.

Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Barrels & Bells @backunmusical - 11 Additional Fingerings

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Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Additional Fingerings @backunmusical - 12 Vocalise Mouthpieces By Hawkins and Backun

Richard Hawkins collaborated with Backun Musical Services to develop a series of mouthpieces with tonal ring and clarity that will change the course of mouthpiece history. Designed using advanced CAD/CAM software and tested with 3D printing technology, Vocalise Mouthpieces are crafted on highly advanced nine-axis CNC machines.

Each mouthpiece helps the player centre articulation, pitch and altissimo, with impeccable ease and consistency of voicing. It is the first mouthpiece of its kind specifically designed to play well on both synthetic and cane reeds, in strengths 2.5 to 4.5. Designed for all ages and experience levels, Vocalise B♭ Mouthpieces features a model for every player and occasion. Complex resonance at a reasonable price.

Vocalise Bb R, G, H and Z Vocalise Bb CG

R – Close/Short G – Medium/Medium H – Open/Long Z – Extremely Open/Long CG – Open/Long

Evenness and a focus of sound A medium faced mouthpiece The most open facing in the The Vocalise Z was developed Crafted from a proprietary clear that sings with ease are two that combines exceptional lineup, the H is both smooth to meet the needs of artists synthetic material, the Vocalise characteristics of this close evenness and round tonal and dark, with ample cushion who prefer mouthpieces with CG Mouthpiece is Open/Long, facing mouthpiece that allows complexity. The G has a for those who need more a larger facing, while offering while giving players a flexible to articulate with reduced effort, smoother influence on interval robust flexibility throughout significant volume and and vibrant tone. This model while ringing true with fabulous connections just where you the registers. This mouthpiece projection. With a robust tone, articulates with ease and holds clarity. need it. requires unyielding passion in it is reminiscent of more current a clear quality of sound at performance. European models. extreme volumes.

Volume 3, Altissimo Range - Vocalise Mouthpieces @backunmusical - 13 Visit the Backun Musical Services Website for More Clarinet Resources

Alternate Fingerings for Throat Tones, Volume 1 Alternate Fingerings for Upper Register, Volume 2

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