Arranging and Orchestration Concepts !! 135Example 6-36 Alto clarinet in E-flat range: staff indicates where the parts are written.tone saxophone plays in the saxophone section. It is also used to play low
auxiliary parts in many orchestral arrangements and blends well with
other low instruments, such as celli and trombones.
Range:Parts are written in the treble clef and sound a major ninth
lower than the written part. The lowest written note is E, below the treble
clef, and the highest written note is G, one octave above the treble clef.
Professional clarinetists can play higher (see example 6-37).
Example 6-37 Bass clarinet in B-flat range: staff indicates where the parts are written.Oboe
The oboe uses a double reed, made of cane, instead of a plastic mouthpiece
that holds a single reed. The oboe blends well with other woodwinds and
especially sounds good playing in unison, harmony, or octaves with flutes.
Oboists have great technical dexterity and can perform complicated pas-
sages with ease.
The oboe is a beautiful solo instrument that can depict either sadness
or playfulness. Because it can make a ‘‘nasal’’ sound, the instrument is also
used to create a feeling of humor, as does the bassoon. Many concertos
and chamber selections have been written for the oboe.
Range:The oboe is a nontransposing instrument. Parts are written in
the treble clef. The lowest note is B-flat, below middle C, and the highest
note is F, above the treble clef (see example 6-38).
English Horn in F
The English horn is a tenor oboe and uses a double reed, made of cane. It
has a beautiful, deep, rich sound that is showcased when playing solos.
Range:Parts are written in the treble clef and sound a perfect fifth
above where they are written. The lowest written note is B, below middle