| The Clarinet of the 21st Century | As the clarinet enters the fourth century of its existence, this workshop will examine its recent past and will also look to the future. Various extended techniques such as mutliphonics, timbre trills, microtones, and glissando to name a few, will be discussed and demonstrated. These techniques will then be presented in the context of new compositions for the instrument. In addition, new notational devices will be also discussed. A part of this workshop will demonstrate how a mastery of these extended techniques of clarinet performance will enhance the performance of conventional repertoire as well. Compositions of the last decade will be demonstrated and performed. In addition, this workshop will include a discussion of future directions as we move further into the 21st century. |
| ClarElectrics | Since the advent of electronic music within the last half century, the performance of music for a solo instrument with electronic extensions has played an increasingly vital role. This workshop will discuss and demonstrate the use of the clarinet in the varied world of electronic music. Beginning with music for clarinet and prerecorded electronics, the presentation will progress to works using real time electronic processing and visual extensions. These visual extensions will include computer-processed video and projection of programs from a laptop computer. The use of contact microphones, effects processors, pitch-to-MIDI devices, and synthesizers will also be discussed. A large number of compositions will be presented in each category (prerecorded electronics, real time processing, visuals) so that these various electronic extensions may be heard in a musical context. |
| Repertoire Development | While the clarinet has in its repertoire works of incomparable beauty and sophistication, it is unfortunate that the number of these compositions are far fewer than other instruments such as violin and piano. Rather than confining recital programs to a constant repetition of these masterworks by composers such as Brahms, Debussy, Schumann, etc., it is important to explore other works that will help make a recital program an event of discovery rather than a rehash of overly familiar material. In addition to exploring new compositions for the clarinet in various combinations, this workshop will include a discussion and demonstration of earlier but lesser known works for the instrument. Original compositions from all style periods will be discussed, along with transcriptions of works originally for voice and other instruments. |
| Fundamentals Revisited | The importance of continual work on basic fundamentals of clarinet performance cannot be overemphasized. Work on scales, intervals, pattern studies, long tones, articulation, finger and hand position, and breath control should be a part of every clarinetist's daily routine. Fresh and innovative approaches to these basic techniques, coupled with traditional methods, will be demonstrated and discussed. Based on material gleaned from long years of study with a variety of distinguished instructors including Leon Russianoff, William Stubbins, Robert Marcellus, Joseph Allard, and David Glazer, this workshop will include a number of handouts that will help enhance daily practice. A mastery of these fundamentals will form the basis of artistic clarinet performance and will enhance sight reading ability. |
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