Abstract:
Original research into the links between vocal and clarinet tone reveals how
clarinettists act as expressive conduits of musical styles in diverse ensembles. This
research is relevant to musicologists and anthropologists as well as clarinettists and
composers, who wish to gain an understanding of the vocal links in clarinet playing, and
how clarinettists function in socio-musical contexts. Research is mainly based on
Musicology and Music Education (vocal-clarinet links), and also refers to sources in
Anthropology (musical identity), and Ethnomusicology (music in ensembles) in order to
find some insightful connections. Ethnographic fieldwork is based on four professional
freelance clarinettists in four different ensembles in Wellington, New Zealand. Their
function in western art and contemporary art music, jazz and klezmer music is explored,
to discover how these clarinettists extend, mirror, partner, or replace the voice in these
musical contexts. Additional work undertaken on bodymind integration is designed to
complement the musical identity work in the thesis and to enhance the musicianship and
physical wellbeing of clarinettists. The section on clarinet design illustrates how
different combinations of instruments and mouthpieces can vary the tone quality of the
clarinet and enhance individual playing styles. The research shows that due to the
versatility and flexibility of the instrument, clarinettists are able to transcend gender,
ethnic, and ensemble boundaries, to take on leadership roles and to act as expressive
conduits of musical styles in and between diverse ensembles. The outcome of the
research highlights the intersection between the physiological relationship between the
voice and the clarinet and scholarship on musical identity.
