 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Zannah
Date: 1999-05-27 18:22
I'm looking for a progressive solo that's not too hard, but I need a challenge. I'm looking at Stravinsky's Three Pieces for Clarinet Solo and it's at about the right level, but I'm not sure if I actually like it. I don't like most modern pieces either. I'd appreciate any suggestions if you have played something at about this level. Thanks!
-Zannah
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Author: Kylene
Date: 1999-05-27 18:38
Where are you located? Im in NY, and a solo grade one is the level given to the easiest solos...it goes to 6, which is the hardest solos, and also things like the Mozart, which is not as difficult as many other compositions, but is hard in the way that you have to play it pretty darn well to impress someone!
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Author: stuart
Date: 1999-05-27 20:05
I managed to get through high school and college without ever dealing with grades of difficulty. I don't know if that's a usefull way of thinking about things. If you want to learn something challengeing try writing your own solo piece!
Next best thing in my opinion: transcribed Bach solos. These will open your mind and ears, especialy if you try memorizing them. They allow an unlimited variety of interpretation (if you disregard the editors marks) and require tremendous control. They also bring you to the world of Bach, which operates high in the heavens and deep in hearts. Good luck!
PS: That Stravinsky is BOLD! I never did it. Have you played Raga Music? Osbourne Rhapsody?
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Author: Daniel
Date: 1999-05-27 21:40
According to the UIL PML, class one is the "hardest" and class three is the "easiest". But in actuality, each of the three divisions covers such a braod range. Plus the UIL PML (Prescribed Music Listing) only covers such a small selection of music. Most of it even comes from the Rubank slected contest pieces and similar books. And it neglects alot of the standard literature for each instrument.
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Author: Joey
Date: 1999-05-28 00:05
Remember though, not all states are involved in UIL. Here in TX we are, and you are right, Class 1's are the hardest, and Class 3's are the easiest. The Mozart, several Brahms and the Stravinsky piece are included on the Class 1 list. Also, there's the Bernstein Piece for clarinet, and the Copland Concerto. I don't have a list with me, the PML book is in the Band Hall. Hope you find something you'll really like.
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Author: Tim2
Date: 1999-05-28 02:31
Have you tried the "Fantasie" by Philippe Gaubert. Not as modern as Stravinsky by there are a few groups of notes that should challenge.
Berstein's "Sonata" is good, and the 2nd movement (a 2 movement work) will give you a workout in counting. The Poulenc "Sonata" is a great piece. with a bit of comedy and forboding, along with what I think is a touch of sarcasm.
Everyone talks about the "Hillendale Waltzes" by Babin and the Lutaslowski (sp please forgive) "Dance Preludes."
Jonathan Cohler has a CD out with pieces for clarinet alone. That's the name of the CD. On it are a few pieces that may interest you. William O. Smith's "Five Pieces for Clarinet Alone" is a tough work but if you do the Stravinski, you can do this. "A Set for Clarinet" by Donald Martino is three movements of notes galour. This is tough in the strongest sense. The CD also has Osborne's "Rhapsody" that Stuart referred to. All are written since the mid 1950's.
There is a book called Classical Studies with mostly Bach transcriptions from violin and cello sonatas and suites and partitas. As Stuart says, Bach is a great vehicle for expression and individuality. Many great things in here. Put out by Rubank.
To help get your fingers into the mode of 20th century music, Rudolf Jettel has "Preliminary Studies to 'The Accomplished Clarinettist'" with "The Accomplished Clarinettist" being three volumes (and expensive). I have only the first book of the "Preliminary Studies." This helped me very much to broaden my finger technique. They stretch the scope of playing in a key. I like my book I got very, very much. 15 studies two to three pages in length.
I wish you well in your clarinet excursions. Enjoy.
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Author: Simone
Date: 1999-05-28 10:42
Have a look at Arlequin for Clarinet Solo by Cahuzac. It's not as hard as Strawinsky but really fun to play.
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Author: Zannah
Date: 1999-05-28 22:22
Thanks for all the suggestions, I think I'll go buy cd's of some of those solos!
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