Bass Clarinet? Why did my teacher pick me?

Question:

Bass Clarinet? Why did my teacher pick me?

So today my band teacher goes up to me and asks me if I want to switch to bass clarinet next school year. I IMMEDIATELY say yes, because I've ALWAYS wanted to play that. But then I got to wondering, why'd she choose me?

I've played Bb (b-flat) clarinet for 6 years, and i'm 5th chair out of 6 people. Any ideas?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Take it as a vote of confidence. Playing bass clarinet, you'll be the only one in your section on that part, so it means your teacher thinks you know your stuff, rather than relying on the person sitting next to you.

You'll have similar music to other bass instrument, but they have their own fingerings to do. You're not on your own, but it means you can play without a "security blanket".

And showing great enthusiasm is always a selling point! Source(s):
I'm a clarinet and sax teacher and band conductor. I think your teacher is seeing something in you. I was in the concert band and the marching band. I know how difficult it can be playing an instrument. They might need a bass clarinet and saw potential in you. Good Luck. maybe u go tthe low range good i don't know maybe he knows u wanted to play it I can't think of any reasons why she wouldn't choose you. Look upon it as encouragement in your musical life. Go for it! I'm an orchestra teacher so I can only tell you why I would switch a student's instrument. My current high school orchestra is low on bass players. I found a violinist that is bright but has not put hundreds of dollars into an instrument or lessons. (Don't want to make the parent mad) It will also not be a huge blow to the section if I remove her. By moving her, I have benefited the group as a whole. There may be a possibility that you can play low notes better than the rest the group. Teachers move people to different instruments to "balance out the group" and you can play more music. Trust me, I had 2 bass clarinets last year in my band and they blended very well with the band. It's a very lovely instrument. Band teachers know what is best for the band, and she knows that you would make a wonderful bass clarinet player.

Be happy that she offered it to you! =]