Aklarinetti

Aklarinetti is a term used in some languages to designate the A clarinet, a standard member of the clarinet family pitched in A. It is a transposing woodwind instrument; when a written C is played, the sounding pitch is A (a minor third below written).

Construction and design

Modern Aklarinetti typically use the Boehm system of keywork. They have a cylindrical bore, a single-reed mouthpiece, and a flared bell. Bodies are commonly made from grenadilla (African blackwood) or other hardwoods, with plastic alternatives in student models. The instrument is usually played with a curved or straight neck and a range that extends from written E above middle C to near the C two octaves higher, with keys and rings enabling precise intonation across registers.

History and use

The A clarinet evolved from early clarinets developed in the 18th century and became a standard counterpart to the B-flat clarinet. In the Classical and Romantic periods, composers wrote extensively for both clarinets in different keys. The A clarinet gained particular prominence in orchestral and chamber repertoires due to its warmer, darker tone in certain passages and its key compatibility with transpositions needed for repertoire in A.

Notation and repertoire

As a transposing instrument, parts for Aklarinetti are written a minor third higher than concert pitch. Typical repertoire includes works by Mozart and Beethoven, as well as Romantic and modern pieces that require a clarinet in A. It remains a common choice for orchestras, wind ensembles, and solo literature.

Manufacturers and players

Prominent makers include Buffet Crampon, Selmer Paris, and Yamaha. Notable players across history and today perform on A clarinets, contributing to a rich contemporary and classical repertoire.