The Bass Clarinet in the Clarinet Family: Understanding the Woodwind Hierarchy

Knowing the family to which the bass clarinet belongs is a fundamental aspect of understanding this unique and versatile instrument. In this article, we delve into the complexity of the clarinet family and explore its relationship with the broader woodwind family. We also discuss the classification of other woodwind instruments, including the bassoon family and saxophone family, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the hierarchical structure of wind instruments.

The Clarinet Family

The clarinet family includes a spectrum of instruments, from the highest-pitched Eb Sopranino to the lowest-pitched Bb Contrabass. Each of these instruments has a distinct range and sound quality, but they all share a common origin and are classified under the clarinet family for practical reasons. Table 1 below summarizes the clarinet family hierarchy, emphasizing the key instruments that are most commonly made.

Instrument Range Eb Sopranino Clarinet Very High Bb Soprano Clarinet High Eb Alto Clarinet Middle Bb Bass Clarinet Low Eb Contra-Alto Clarinet Very Low Bb Contrabass Clarinet Lowest

While other instruments like D Sopranino, A Soprano, C Soprano, and F Basset Horn may occasionally appear, they are much rarer in comparison.

Further Classification: Tenor Range and Low Woodwinds

The bass clarinet can also be classified into the tenor range, which includes the bassoon, tenor saxophone, and tenor trombone. Additionally, it can be grouped into the low woodwinds, including the alto clarinet, baritone saxophone, contrabassoon, and bass flute. These instruments share common characteristics that bridge the gap between the clarinet family and the larger woodwind superfamily.

Furthermore, the bass clarinet can be seen as a member of the low woodwinds category, which includes double bass, cello, timpani, tuba, trombone, and bass saxophone. This broader classification highlights the variety of instruments that have similar sound production methods and can be grouped together for ensemble playing.

Classification as a Confederation

While the immediate response to the question of the bass clarinet's family is typically "woodwinds," this classification is more accurately thought of as a “confederation” of different woodwind families. My rationale for this classification is rooted in my experience with recorder ensembles, where instruments are grouped into consorts based on their size and similar voice qualities. Each woodwind family shares common characteristics, such as sound production methods and material used, with the clarinet family standing out due to its distinct range and sound.

I have a pianist friend who often referred to the bassoon as the bass member, the clarinet as the tenor member, the oboe as the alto member, and the flute as the soprano member. While this simplified classification can be useful, it is not entirely accurate because each instrument is distinct and belongs to its own family. For example, the bass clarinet is the bass member of the clarinet family, the alto clarinet is the tenor member, the B flat clarinet is the alto member, and the E flat clarinet is the soprano member.

By using the terms "bass," "tenor," "alto," and "soprano," we can maintain a consistent analogy with vocal choirs. This classification allows us to form a clarinet choir or consort, made up of different sizes of clarinets, from the bass clarinet to the Eb Sopranino.

Conclusion

In summary, the bass clarinet's family classification is part of a broader hierarchy within the woodwind family. By recognizing the clarinet family as a distinct group and understanding the classification of other woodwind instruments, we can better appreciate the rich diversity of wind instruments and their relationships with one another. This classification provides a clear and structured framework for understanding the roles and functions of each instrument within ensembles and orchestras.