Klarinet Archive - Posting 000221.txt from 1998/12

From: "Craig Earl Countryman" <cegc@-----.net>
Subj: Re: [kl] Rossini
Date: Sun, 6 Dec 1998 02:05:23 -0500

-----Original Message-----
From: Victor Chen <clarinettist@-----.com>
>Would it be safe to say that Rossini's Introduction, Theme, and Variations
is
>a show piece very much like many of Weber's works? Or is there more to the
>piece than the obvious?

I think the Theme and Variations format is less mature than a three movement
structure. That's just my opinion. However, I think it can be argued that
the Theme and Vars presents some challenges to the composer that the three
movement does not. In Theme and Vars the composer has to keep coming up
with new inventions on a simple theme, where other composers can use key
changes and the like. Therefore, Rossini was much more constricted in the
tools available to him then Weber or others who used three movements. This
leads to the simpler structure his work has.

However, I think the work is more than a show piece. Someone just tear
through the piece playing it as fast as they want with no regard for
dynamics or articulations and they'd definitely be displaying technical
ability. However, I think there is opportunity to use the work not only as
a showcase for presenting great technique, but also to show musicality.

Rossini doesn't provide many dynamic markings in the variations, and this is
an excellent opportunity for the performer to use his interpretive skills to
add something to the performance. Also, there are some variations you could
make with the tempo, perhaps some ritards and accelerandos in appropriate
places. Rossini leaves much open which gives the performer some room to
shine musically.

Ultimately, this piece is meant for the soloist to show off, but a superior
performance calls for the performer to show off not only technical might but
sensitivity and musicality (especially in the Minore).

----------------------------------------------
Craig Earl Countryman
cegc@-----.net
http://www.sneezy.org/clarinet/YPP/Craig.html
http://www.geocities.com/Vienna/1711/
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