Klarinet Archive - Posting 000612.txt from 1995/09

From: Fred Jacobowitz <fredj@-----.EDU>
Subj: Re: High School Solos
Date: Thu, 28 Sep 1995 19:01:28 -0400

Neil,
In my 15 years as a teacher, I've never known a jury to cut someone
because they were playing an oft-heard piece. Play it well and you will
score highly. Play it badly and you will be cut. It is not the material,
but the playing that gets these kids cut. They simply play the Mozart
Concerto badly. The piece itself is a) the finest work in the clarinet
literature and a MUST-LEARN for all student clarinetists and b) a superb solo
vehicle which never ceases to interest and delight the listener, when
played well. Your teacher is right to have you learn the work.

Fred Jacobowitz

On Wed, 27 Sep 1995, Neil Chungfat wrote:

> I'm currently planning for next season's NYSSMA (NY state school music
> association) solo competition, and am having difficulty deciding for a solo
> to play. Last year, I played the Marty 1st fantasie, and got a 99. My
> teacher suggested the Mozart, but I'm hesitant to play it, since it is
> played quite frequently in NYSSMA festivals, and usually gets cut by the
> judges. If anyone has any suggestions for a level six solo, I would appreciate
> it greatly (anything comparable or slightly more difficult than the Marty)
>
> Thanks,
>
> Neil Chungfat
> chungfan@-----.edu
>