I`m trying to write a piece for clarinet that has a A-B-A across the break with the first two notes been very fast, like grace notes. Can anyone tell me whether this is actually possible or not?

It`s not to terribly difficult. But, if it`s too fast to go across the break, there is an alternate fingering to go A-B-A. The B turns out a little flat (usually), but it`s not much, and it`s so fast that no one notices. Good luck with your piece.

yeah, it is. it won`t sound good, but the notes go by so fast that nobody notices, and if they do, they probably know enough ebout music to realize what`s going on.

altB is the A key, register key, and the top two keys on that line you use for Eb. altC is the same and only uses one of those keys, i`m not sure if it`s the first or second.

good luck!

uh, i think thats the trill fingering for bb to c. i`m pretty sure that an a to b trill is a then trill with the top side key.

oh yeah, about the composition. yes, it is easy to play an a to b trill, and it doesn`t sound bad if you play it correctly. so go for it.

Brilliant - thanks for your help guys.

To tell the truth I only use false fingerings in horrible passages (for example if you play flute: I play the Muczynski Sonata for Flute: 1 measure before 13: I play the whole measure with false fingerings. It just makes that passage SO much easier). With the A-B-A: All you do to make it a true A-B-A is to keep your right hand already on the keys for the B (Using the RH E/B pinky key instead of left hand). You just hold that down as you play the A and then go directly into the B. It`s quite simple, and to tell you the truth, if you have any problems with fuzziness in your G-G#-A-Bb(alternate fingering with side trill key) put down at least the three fingers covering the rings on the RH. Instantly clear!

-Dennis (sarasotahair@yahoo.com)

Re: "I`m trying to write a piece for clarinet that has a A-B-A across the break with the first two notes been very fast, like grace notes. Can anyone tell me whether this is actually possible or not?"

Despite the answers above, I`d get hold of an actual flesh-and-blood clarinetist and have him try out the passage in front of me before I committed myself. In the mean time try to think of alternate possibilities.