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Re: Recital Program

Author: crnichols
Date: 2006-08-25 01:05

I'd stick with the Benjamin. I think you need an interpretational starting place even while you're still trying to work out technical difficulties, or else learning this piece just feels like forced labor. Think of them as waltzes of varying tempi (the subtitle gives that to you anyways)...and then come up with some images or places for the different sections. Also, make note of where the rhythmic emphasis doesn't fall on the downbeat. Being conscious of this is essential to your understanding of the piece. Benjamin is very specific about his markings, and following them closely will definitely give you a point of departure as well. Also, I think after you rehearse with a pianist, this piece is so much more interesting. There is lots of great dialogue.

I remember the first Waltz always made me think of a smokey Parisian bar...
Anyways, if you still don't want to play it, find a french showpiece. The Benjamin is definitely showy, so you should replace it with something to that effect if you want to. The Chausson Andante and Allegro or the Messager Solo de Concours both come to mind. They aren't nearly as difficult, but both serve well as closers.

Christopher Nichols, D.M.A.
Assistant Professor of Clarinet
University of Delaware

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