Klarinet Archive - Posting 000381.txt from 1997/05

From: Lord Rob <rteitelbaum@-----.EDU>
Subj: RE: 20th century clarinet
Date: Mon, 12 May 1997 01:00:08 -0400

Mike,

I realize that the Copland was written for Goodman,
but this doesn't necessarily make his performance
a good one. Even the composer doesn't always know
his/her work the best. I once heard it said of a certain
poem that it was "more intelligent than its author."
I think the same could be true of music. I absolutely
can't stand Gershwin's performance of Rhapsody in
Blue on the piano rolls recording that was released
several years ago. And, as Neil Leupold pointed out
(thanks, Neil!), Goodman himself admitted that he
couldn't play the Copland. I agree with you that he was
capable of providing the relaxed flow that characterizes
the concerto, but I just don't feel that he achieved that
flow, or got anywhere near the proper feeling of the piece.
If you don't believe me, try listening to Goodman's
recording, and then immediately afterward listen to Shifrin's.
I think you'll be amazed at the difference in quality, both of
technique and, more importantly, of interpretation.

Rob Teitelbaum
Claremont McKenna College