Klarinet Archive - Posting 000472.txt from 1998/07

From: "Edwin V. Lacy" <el2@-----.edu>
Subj: Re: [kl] Bass Clarinets
Date: Fri, 17 Jul 1998 12:50:35 -0400

On Fri, 17 Jul 1998, Jay D. Webler wrote:

> The other day, while in Bethesda, Maryland, I heard a Concerto by
> Mendellson (not sure of the spelling) for Clarinet and Bass Clarinet. I
> was abosolutely shocked at the facility that was achieved on this
> instrument. It was one of the most pleasureable Clarinet compositions
> that I have ever heard. If anyone knows the name of this composition
> please let me know what it is.

I was sure someone would have already responded to you, but since I
haven't seen a reply, I'll have a stab at it.

You almost certainly heard one of two works by Mendelssohn. The
Konzertstuck #1 in F Minor, Op. 113, or the Konzertstuck #2 in D Minor,
Op. 114. These were originally written for clarinet and basset horn, with
orchestral accompaniment. In part because of the relative unavailability
of the basset horn, they have been performed in many other
transformations. The one you heard, with the bass clarinet replacing the
basset horn is a fairly common one. I admit to having played the same
part on the bassoon, and it has even been done on the cello. Also,
naturally, each one exists with the accompaniment transcribed for piano.
I personally prefer the first one, Op. 113. There are editions by various
publishers, including International Music Company.

Ed Lacy
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Dr. Edwin Lacy University of Evansville
Professor of Music 1800 Lincoln Avenue
Evansville, IN 47722
el2@-----.edu (812)479-2754
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