Klarinet Archive - Posting 000160.txt from 1997/06

From: "Craig E. Countryman" <cegc@-----.net>
Subj: Re: Improvisation (2) ATTN: Dan Leeson
Date: Sat, 14 Jun 1997 10:54:26 -0400

Well, I had wanted to begin improvising on Mozart when I read some
articles concerning the subject. I think improvisation of some sort is
important on this kind of music. After all, how many times can you
listen to the same thing played over and over. I am not saying change
the melodic line, or play a la Benny Goodman, but different
interpretation can breath new life into the music, perhaps improve upon
it in some way...

I have been playing for three years, was principal third clarinet in
this year's Florida All-State Band. I am going into the 11th Grade next
year. I am 16 years old, and this year I played a variety of pieces
including Weber's 2 concertos, his concertino, and two mvts. (Fantasia
and Rondo) of his clarinet and strings quintet. Currently I am studying
for performance the Copland Concerto and Poulenc's Sonata as well as the
Mozart Concerto. I believe I have a rather high skill level: gorgeous
tone, better than average technique, with ok articulation (it is my real
weakness).

Any other info you would like?

Craig