anyone in here actually like playing the thing? i tried to play it in 7th grade, but it got really obnoxious after awhile. maybe it`s just me...

Probably it`s just you. The alto clarinet is a wonderful instrument with lots of oppurtunities since it`s in a way the modern basset horn. You see, many classical pieces (and escpasially Mozart) is written for basset clarinet. Mozart loved the deep, rich sound of the clarinets going down as a contrast to all those bright sounding instruments. After all, you don`t get an instrument in an orchestra with the reech of the clarinet.

I agree with Wolfie.
I`ve been playing Alto in the Symphonic Band of the Palm Beaches for years. I double on 2nd Bb when there arent any parts for Alto. I love the instrument. It seems to be like the French horn of the woodwinds. Not too high and not too low - just perfect inbetween. I`m really surprised the instrument isn`t more popular.
Please have another look at it - I don`t think you`ll be disappointed.

I play it! finally someone to! e-mail me!

It could also have been the horn, if you got a poorly-built one. Or one in poor repair. What brand was it?

I just got the Alto clarinet and I need some tips or beginner music or warmups or something and i cant find anything can somebody help me?