Introduction to the Bassett Horn in Mozart's Requiem

Bach Festival clarinetists, Lynn Musco, principal and Jessica Hall Speak, assistant principal, give an introduction and historical perspective to the Bassett Horn and its use in Mozart's Requiem.

[@mathersdavid5113]

She is conflating the basset horn with the basset clarinet- they are distinct instruments.

[@zacharycoronado6749]

She's confusing the bassethorn and the basset clarinet.
Mozart wrote for both.
Also, Mozart didn't specifically like the lower notes of Stadler's playing. The basset clarinet had the high range that Mozart liked, with the low range Stadler preferred.
Mozart though, did love the tone of the small bored bassethorn. Lower but with a more refined timbre.

[@instrumentalheadquarters7062]

Well first of all like some of you commented they say basset clarinet, what is totally different from the Basset Horn. Also she says when possible play it on the right instrument. Use the original basset horn if you want to play it the way it was intended.

[@stickom]

This is... the best intro to some instrument so far known to me... (something like Haydn used to say giving an accolade to fellow composers) kidding, you guys rock, all you said is spot-on and entertaining, I only wish I could play a clarinet a bassetto horn in particular.

[@darylsol]

Wonderful! thanks for sharing this beautiful and almost forgotten instrument

[@divinodayacap3313]

Benedictus was actually composed by Sussamyr

[@billducker7404]

Thank you so much for a lovely presentation. It is lovely to hear that sound. I’m sorry to say but the clarinet version doesn’t sound so good. It is only used because it is the most available instrument. I remember going once to play at a concert and they provided the wrong parts it’s not a very nice transposition it would be great if you could find another player and do some of the Trios. Wishing you all the best and your exploration of this beautiful instrument. - God bless you both - Bill - UK

[@heinvanmaarschalkerwaart9799]

Ladies. it is a nice explanation but I am sorry to say: there is an intonation problem between the two of you and you are not always playing well together. (sound balance and the holding the proper length of the notes) Mind you the basset clarinet is not lower pitched but it has more keys which extends the range of the instrument. On The German basset horn it is easier to play more in tune.. Did you notice the parallel 4ths and 5ths in some passages ?

[@ChryslerPhantom]

Maybe, a little bit the air column, but the fourths it's problem of Sussmayr, fight you with him 😂