Bass Clarinet with David Howard (August 8, 2012)

Jenny Maclay: Prior to joining the Los Angeles Philharmonic as bass clarinetist, you were the principal clarinet of the New Jersey Symphony. What are some of your favorite aspects of both positions?

David Howard: When I was principal clarinet in New Jersey I was a young man right out of college playing in a wonderful wind section that happened to be made up of people who were at that same point in their lives. We had a wonderful time starting from scratch professionally. It was a big responsibility but it was great encountering the repertoire for the first time with such an enthusiastic group of players in a truly excellent orchestra. When I started playing bass clarinet in Los Angeles I was also learning repertoire but in a different setting. I was playing in a world class orchestra with conductors who were on the highest level. Playing bass clarinet I have autonomy musically but I also blend into a section – with absolutely sensational colleagues.