Klarinet Archive - Posting 000366.txt from 1997/01

From: "Robt. Walzel" <aqrlw@-----.EDU>
Subj: My favorite Nielsen!
Date: Wed, 22 Jan 1997 10:33:14 -0500

Another old recording of the Nielsen not mentioned yet that I highly
recommend for anyone, but particularly students, is the Jack McCaw release
on the Unicorn label (UNS 239). I do not know if it is currently available
but if not, it would be worth looking for in used record shops. For my
taste it is still the most interesting interpretation ever recorded. His
tempos are noticeably slower in the really difficult places, but his
playing is extremely musical. Many players attempt this "Mt. Everest" of
our repertoire with the attitude of faster is better or "I'm going to play
it that fast because I can!" McCaw explores a musical side of this piece
which gave me as a student, and now my students, things to consider in
formulating a unique interpretation.

Just to plant a seed for a somewhat new topic of discussion, I believe
McCaw, who was Solo Clarinetist with the Philharmonia and then New
Philharmonia Orchestra in England, was one of the first English
clarinetists (although he is actually from New Zealand) to abandon the
Boosey 1010 in favor of the Buffet. I have always admired McCaw's playing
and would be interested in reading more discussion about him.

Robert Walzel, Festival Coordinator - ClarinetFest '97
Texas Tech University School of Music
ph#806-742-2270 FAX#806-742-2294
ClarinetFest '97 http://www.ttu.edu/~music/clarinetfest