Klarinet Archive - Posting 000006.txt from 1996/11

From: Steve Prescott <mipresc@-----.EDU>
Subj: Challenging pieces for clarinet
Date: Fri, 1 Nov 1996 09:50:47 -0500

This is an old subject but it's something that's been bugging me for a
while and I felt I should say something for my own sanity.

I think some posed the question, and I can't quote it, about not having
anything challenging to play. I, personally, think this is a short-sighted
statement.

Ex. When you first start learning Mozart's Clarinet Concerto it is
difficult. Once you've learned it, it becomes easy....Then it becomes
difficult. Mozart's Concerto is one of the most difficult pieces in the
clarinet repertoire for the accomplished player.

Secondly, we hear challenging pieces for clarinet on the radio all the
time. There are many on this list who have produced recordings of standard
as well as contemporary works.

Thirdly, (and last), a piece of music doesn't have to burn up the clarinet
in order to be challenging.

2 contemporary works worth playing (or at least learning):

Joan Tower's "Wings"
Libby Larsen's "Dancing Solo"

As everyone says, that's my 2 cents.

Steve.

Steve Prescott
Instrument Rep.Tech./ Clarinetist
Indiana State University
mipresc@-----.edu