Klarinet Archive - Posting 000379.txt from 1994/12

From: "Michael A. Cassara" <MikeC414@-----.COM>
Subj: Shifrin vs. Stoltzman
Date: Mon, 26 Dec 1994 19:01:56 -0500

Bruce,
As we speak I am listening to David Shifrin and his recording on the Aaron
Copland Clarinet Concerto. From biographical information I know Shifrin was
first influenced by jazz and Benny Goodman much like Stoltzman. His
interpretation of the Copland Concerto is very unique (to me) I have heard
various recordings and credit him with his originality and wonderful playing.

The fact is that Stoltzman and Shifrin are two virtuoso players with
very different approaches to the music. In Stoltzmans different recordings
of the Copland Concerto, there is always an apparent tribute to Benny Goodman
within the playing. There are many different ways to interpret the cadenza
of the Concerto. While Shifrin takes a very rythmic approach showcasing his
virtuosic tone, Stoltzman plays with more concern for momentum and feeling
then Shifrin. This is also apparent at the "jazzy" part following measure
295. It is marked "With humor and relaxed" by Copland himself. Shifrin
takes a very straight forward approach, while Stoltzman embelishes the tones
for more feeling.
As for Sabine Meyer, I am unfamiliar with her work. I hope to hear
other peoples opinions on these issues.

Michael A. Cassara