Klarinet Archive - Posting 000604.txt from 2003/09

From: Sean Osborn <feanor33@-----.net>
Subj: [kl] Francaix Concerto Questions
Date: Mon, 22 Sep 2003 11:39:30 -0400

>Recently I received my copy of the Francaix Clarinet Concerto and thought it
>might be a very effective competition piece. I do have some questions
>though..
>
>1) I have always heard that the greatest hinderance to this piece is the fact
>that it is in the key of B major, making many of the passages akward. Would
>it be legal for me to load the part into Finale and transpose it for A
>clarinet, providing I don't give my copy to anyone?

The concerto was originally for A clarinet, but since most people found it
easier on Bb, it was transposed. There are a couple low Ebs still left.
It's rarely in Bmaj, and I also feel it is easier on Bb clarinet.

>2) I noticed that the piano reduction part has 3 (and in some spots 4) staves.
> Is this playable? Has anybody done it? Would a good accompanist know which
>parts to play and which parts to leave out?

You may need to make suggestions. I've heard it done with two pianists.

>3) To compete in this particular concerto competition, I would need to verify
>that the orchestra parts are easily obtainable for sale or rent. Does anybody
>know about this?

Recently, a freind was trying to buy it, but was told the piece (clar and
piano) was out of print. If it is, you'll have a hard time finding it. I'm
hoping this is a temporary situation. I think it's a great concerto, and
hope that it does not remain out of print. Does anyone else have news about
this?

Sean Osborn

www.geocities.com/osbornmusic
www.mp3.com/metopera/

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