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Arabesque No. 1 arr. clarinet quartet

Debussy’s Arabesque No. 1 arranged for clarinet quartet, comprising 3 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet sounding in the key of F. This is music comp Show More...

Debussy’s Arabesque No. 1 arranged for clarinet quartet, comprising 3 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet sounding in the key of F. This is music composed whilst Debussy was still in his 20’s. The first Arabesque has a tempo marking Andantino con moto whist the realisation for clarinet quartet plays back at an initial 112 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. The music has been transposed from the original key of E to F. There are some of octave transpositions in the arrangement keeping the instrument parts within the range of the instrument. It is a three section work. Clarinet parts appropriately transposed are appended to the full music score. Tempo considerations have great relevance in the performance of this music. In terms of beauty of music lines this is a hard piece of music to beat which makes it an enthralling and challengeing ensemble piece possibly best performed with a conductor in place or by the clarinet in Bb 1 player who is a competent leader. Learning 3’s against 2’s as a cross rhythm (and 2’s against 3’s) are probably best learnt as clapping/tapping games in a group context. Much of the writing in this movement references triadic chords played as arpeggios. The intervals of the thirds and tenth (compound third) feature strongly in the parallel motion It is a three section work with the reflective middle section referencing the key of the sub-dominant. The triplet pattern is a strong feature of the movement. Instrumentalists new to playing cross rhythms need to practice playing triplet rhythms for a bar and then change it to eighth notes (quavers) so that they develop a clear sense of pulse in their playing. This a movement where the tempo often ebbs and flows in what is referred to as Tempo Rubato. This is an important aspect of performance practice and something that is first associated with the music of Chopin. Instrumentalists need to have a clear understanding of all the terms used in the score detail. 20th century music scores do generally have more graphics and terms in place to assist how the music is to be played and interpreted. A quite stunning and impressionable piece in all senses of the word with a strong sense of melody that lends itself to being arranged for an ensemble such as a clarinet quartet. Debussy composed his two Arabesques between 1888 and 1891 whilst still in his 20’s. They were originally composed for piano. They are movements that challenge the established pathways of his late romantic contemporaries. They are often described as early impressionist pieces although Debussy himself didn’t like references of his music using the term. Debussy has famously been described as the composer who opened the door to 20th century musical composition in the sense that his compositional approach was different to that of many of his contemporaries whose music was generally becoming increasingly dissonant. Debussy’s writing is more about exploring the beauty of sound without necessarily following the rules of harmonic writing that prevailed in the 19th century. Debussy created a new approach to composition in which beauty of sound and line were paramount exploring connections between the visual arts, nature and the environment around him His music is frequently described as being evocative in that he describes in music what he sees, hears and observes from his experiences of life. He is a composer of visual music. Debussy also lived at a time when the world as such was coming to Europe with exhibitions and as a composer he was open and influenced by the many cultures as his music suggests. Clarinet accompaniments are in place to encourage ensemble practice playing at 100-88 -100 quarter note (crotchets) beats per minute and also 104-092-104, 104-100-104, 108-100-108, 112-096-112 and 112-104-112 bpm with the tempo referring to the music as a three section work. If there clarinettists who would like additional accompaniments in place please advise the PlentyMusic office with tempo suggestions. Whilst there are tempo changes in these accompaniments rubato playing is not as such represented. Arabesque is a term that refers to artistic decoration and line which are terms relevant to music. The art in respect to Arab culture is also extremely relevant as the term suggests having both historical and modern contexts. Spend time looking at Arabesque graphics. There are related aspects to line and position in ballet music so as a description of a piece of music the term Arabesque has several references and meaning. Close

Invention 9 arr. clarinet in B Flat & bass clarinet duo

Invention 9 BWV 780 sounding in the key of F minor, with the score and parts transposed to the key of G minor, is a challenging invention to play part Show More...

Invention 9 BWV 780 sounding in the key of F minor, with the score and parts transposed to the key of G minor, is a challenging invention to play particularly from the note reading point of view. There are many accidentals to read and it is easy to make music reading errors. Listen to performances of the music so that the melodic and shapes are familiar. A legato playing approach is required in the playing in what is a slow tempo and melancholy movement. In the sheet music score the ornaments are indicated but do not sound. The realisation plays back at 58 quarter note or crotchet beats per minute. Accompaniments are in place allowing clarinet players to participate in ensemble activities as part of practice routines. The clarinet in Bb sounds on one side of the stereo channel and the bass clarinet in Bb 2 on the other. The accompaniment tracks play back at 52, 54, 56, 58, 60, 62 & 64 quarter note (crotchet) beats per minute. There is a two bar count in /click track at the beginning of the accompaniment tracks. In the keyboard video score, which clarinettists may wish to refer to on the PlentyMusic YouTube channel ornaments have been written out as they sound in the realisation to represent exactly what is being played. The Bach Inventions are generally considered to be intermediate level movements when played on a keyboard instrument. The principle behind J. S. Bach’s two part inventions is to take a musical idea or motive and then process it following the rules of good contrapuntal writing using the compositional processes of the baroque and at the same time referencing the closely related keys in the key system. Inversion, repetition, sequence, transposition, rhythmic augmentation & diminution amongst processes are evident in Bach’s inventions as most other music of the baroque period. J. S. Bach composed 15 Inventions in a collection dating from 1723 intended to introduce keyboard players to composition techniques of the baroque. In addition, that he was not sadly. They are excellent pieces for ensemble playing. Close

Invention No. 14 arr. clarinet in B flat & bass clarinet

J.S. Bach’s Invention 14 BWV 785 arr. clarinet in Bb & bass clarinet sounding in the key of Bb is a rhythmical work and a movement in which figurati Show More...

J.S. Bach’s Invention 14 BWV 785 arr. clarinet in Bb & bass clarinet sounding in the key of Bb is a rhythmical work and a movement in which figuration is a substitute for ornamentation. Ornaments are omitted in this movement but make way for some exacting and rhythmic figuration. Players should have an understanding of the phrasing needed before playing. J.S. Bach’s music, is from the baroque era in music history and the convention is that there is minimal score detail in place in sheet music scores. The realisation plays back at 56 quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute. This said the movement is probably best played with an awareness of an eighth note or quaver pulse. Accompaniments are in place allowing clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet players to participate in ensemble activities as part of practice routines. The clarinet in Bb sounds on one side of the stereo channel and the bass clarinet on the other. The accompaniment tracks play back at 52, 54, 58, 60 and 62 quarter note (crotchet) beats per minute. Accompaniment backing tracks are recorded with a dry acoustic to encourage accuracy in playing. There is one bar count in /click track at the beginning of the accompaniment tracks. There are different approaches to playing this invention and instrumentalists should spend time listening to performances of the work by a range of musical instruments on streaming media. The Bach Inventions are generally intermediate level movements when played on a keyboard instrument The principle behind J. S. Bach’s two part inventions is to take a musical idea or motive and then process it following the rules of good contrapuntal writing using the compositional processes of the baroque and at the same time referencing the closely related keys in the journey. Inversion, repetition, sequence, transposition, rhythmic augmentation/diminution amongst other processes are evident in Bach’s inventions as most other music of the baroque period. J. S. Bach composed 15 Inventions in a collection dating from 1723 intended to introduce keyboard players to composition techniques of the baroque. They are excellent pieces for developing a sound and secure keyboard technique. Close

Invention 8 arr. clarinet in Bb & bass clarinet

J.S.Bach’s Invention 8 BWV 779 arranged clarinet in Bb & bass clarinet. One of the most popular of the two part inventions with scale runs and chord Show More...

J.S.Bach’s Invention 8 BWV 779 arranged clarinet in Bb & bass clarinet. One of the most popular of the two part inventions with scale runs and chord shapes to master. The sheet music score available as a pdf download from the website has individual parts appended to the full score. Accompaniments are also in place to help players improve their technique and ensemble playing skills. The realisation plays back at 92 quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute. Many musicians play this invention faster and interestingly it is a movement usually played without ornaments. Clarinettists players need to choose a tempo at which the whole movement can be played consistently. It is a good test piece for players because this piece can very easily run away with itself requiring a tempo adjustment in the challenging sixteenth /semi-quaver sections. Music cannot be played quickly until it can be played slowly. Ornaments are not generally featured in this movement whilst the realisation plays back at 92 quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute. Accompaniments are in place allowing trumpet and trombone players to participate in ensemble activities as part of practice routines. The trumpet sounds on one side of the stereo channel and the trombone on the other. The accompaniment tracks play back at, 80, 84, 88, 92, 96 and 100 quarter note (crotchet) beats per minute. This reflects the fact that this particular invention can be played at many different tempi. Accompaniment backing tracks are recorded with a dry acoustic to encourage accuracy in playing. There is a four bar count in /click track for each of the accompaniment tracks. It is wise for players to listen to performances of this invention on streaming media to understand the different approaches that players have when performing this movement especially with regard to articulation. The Bach Inventions are generally considered to be intermediate level movements when played on a keyboard instrument. They are possibly more challenging works when played on other instruments. The principle behind J. S. Bach’s two part inventions is to take a musical idea or motive and then process it following the rules of good contrapuntal writing using the compositional processes of the baroque and at the same time referencing the closely related keys in the harmonic journey. Inversion, repetition, sequence, transposition, rhythmic augmentation/diminution amongst other compositional processes and techniques are evident as in most other music of the baroque period. J. S. Bach composed 15 Inventions in a collection dating from 1723 intended to introduce keyboard players to composition techniques of the baroque. They are excellent pieces for developing ensemble playing in the duo format encouraging listening, accuracy in playing and good intonation. Close

Invention 4 arr. clarinet in B flat & bass clarinet

Invention 4 BWV 775 arranged for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet sounding in the key of D minor is an appealing work featuring an opening motif or me Show More...

Invention 4 BWV 775 arranged for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet sounding in the key of D minor is an appealing work featuring an opening motif or melodic shape that combines stepwise movement with the interval of a falling diminished seventh. The realisation plays back at 45 dotted quarter note or dotted crotchet beats to the minute. The time signature for this movement is 3/8 and the music editor suggests approaching playing the movement with a one in a bar feel or pulse rather than trying to count in eighth notes or quavers. The long trills bar 19 and bar 29 need to be played rhythmically and with control. There is some debate as to the notes to be played in the trill commencing in bar 29. The music editor suggests a written G natural (sounding F natural) but many alternate a G# (sounding F#) with the E. In the video score, which clarinet players may wish to refer to on the PlentyMusic YouTube channel ornaments have been written out as they sound in the realisation to represent exactly what is being played. Accompaniments are in place allowing clarinet players to participate in an ensemble activity as part of practice routines. The Clarinet in Bb sounds on one side of the stereo channel and the Bass Clarinet on the other. The accompaniment tracks play back at 39, 42, 45, 48, 51 and for the brave 54 quarter note (crotchet) beats per minute. Accompaniment backing tracks are recorded with a dry acoustic to encourage accuracy in playing. There is a four bar count in /click track for each of the accompaniment tracks. This is an invention where it is interesting to observe the different approaches to playing the movement particularly with regard to tempo and articulation. The Inventions are always worth revisiting and the collection should be understood to be one that benefits from this. Valuable time can be spent on streaming media listening to and perhaps watching different approaches that players have when performing this movement. Whilst there is considerable contrast to the tempo that the invention is played remember that movements cannot be played quickly until they be played slowly! The inventions offer excellent opportunities to improve ensemble playing in a duo context. Individual clarinet parts are also appended to the full scores available as a pdf download from the PlentyMusic website. The Bach Inventions are considered to be intermediate level movements. The key journey that features in this movement embraces the closley related keys of the relative major, sub-dominant and the V7 – VI progression bars 48 - 49 further adds to the harmonic journey. Imitation, inversion and sequence are all in evidence as compositional processes. The principle behind J. S. Bach’s two part inventions is to take a musical idea or motive and then process it following the rules of good contrapuntal writing using the compositional processes of the baroque and at the same time referencing the closely related keys in the journey. Inversion, repetition, sequence, transposition, rhythmic augmentation/diminution amongst processes are evident in Bach’s inventions as most other music of the baroque period. J. S. Bach composed 15 Inventions in a collection dating from 1723 intended to introduce keyboard players to composition techniques of the baroque. They are excellent pieces for developing a sound and secure playing technique and good intonation. Close

Serenade arr. clarinet quartet with Eb clarinet

Serenade by R. Hoffstetter is a movement from a popular classical string quartet. The arrangement for clarinet quartet marked Andante cantabile includ Show More...

Serenade by R. Hoffstetter is a movement from a popular classical string quartet. The arrangement for clarinet quartet marked Andante cantabile includes a clarinet in Eb, 2 clarinets in Bb and a bass clarinet in the arrangement and sounds in the key of B flat. The PlentyMusic sheet music realisation plays back at 90 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. Improve music practice strategies by downloading this sheet music score and accompaniments from PlentyMusic. The music possesses classical beauty and is sustained in its quality and whilst attributed to Haydn is now known to have been composed by Roman Hoffstetter. The melody does sound easy to play although there are challenges in playing music of this era well and musically. In a performance, the articulation of the notes needs to be consistent - the melody is to be played legato with the accompaniments playing staccato or at least detached . A tempo in the range from 90-102 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the bar is suggested while individual instrument parts are appended to the full score available as a pdf download from the website. The repeats which are not marked in the video score do not play in the realisation or video score. mp3 clarinet accompaniments are available playing at 86, 90, 94, 98 and 102 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. The accompaniments feature the clarinet in Bb 2, clarinetin Bb 3 and bass clarinet parts and gives opportunity to the clarinet in Bb 1 player to practice in an ensemble context. A two bar click track sounding on a wood block can be heard at the opening of the accompaniments to establish the tempo. An ideal concert item because the music epitomises so much of classical style although surprisingly not composed by one of the famous and familiar classical composers. The repetitive element in the melodic writing is strong whilst the melody line combines chordal and stepwise shapes. The appoggiaturas do often create dissonance in the melodic line whilst the chromatic harmonic colour add to the music’s appeal and interest. In the PlentyMusic sheet music score pdf available for download the appoggiaturas (leaning notes) have been notated as they are to be played whilst the acciaccaturas (crushed notes) are indicated as ornaments with the appropriate symbol. In the video score all the ornaments are notated to add clarity to what is a frequently a contentious area. The ornaments, acciaccaturas (crushed notes) whi are probably best omitted in the early stages of playing the movement. This is an excellent movement for developing an understanding of performance practice and the understanding of dissonance, harmonic rhythm and other musical elements that feature in compositions from the classical era. One of the best reasons to play classical music is that it is a positive element in giving players an awareness of basic structures and shapes in music. Additionally, it is also one of the best ways of developing a secure performing/playing technique on an instrument. Classical style features elements of contrast particularly with regard to key and dynamics. As there is also a strong repetitive element that requires the music to played with both simplicity and consistency. The melody can be played with a variety of articulations but in the first instance particularly as an ensemble piece a legato approach is suggested. How the melody is shaped and played in the opening section is how the melody should be played for the rest of the movement. Listening to a number of performances of the score the music it is surprising how different interpretations can be particularly in respect to tempo, articulation of the melody line, the range of dynamics used and particularly the interpretation of ornaments whether appoggiaturas or acciaccaturas. Instrumentalists should appreciate that classical music can be interpreted differently and what is indicated on the page particularly with regard to ornamentation, phrasing and articulation are discussion points. Listening to available recordings will give an awareness how differently the same music can be played but appreciate that the music editor has been intent upon producing a score that is both consistent and has clarity. Roman Hoffstetter, the composer of this music, was interestingly a Benedictine monk, strongly influenced by Haydn in his music so much so that this perfect imitation of Haydn’s style has in the past been assimilated into Haydn’s own catalogue. Close

Serenade arr. clarinet quartet

Serenade by R. Hoffstetter is a movement from a popular classical string quartet. The arrangement for clarinet quartet marked Andante cantabile in thi Show More...

Serenade by R. Hoffstetter is a movement from a popular classical string quartet. The arrangement for clarinet quartet marked Andante cantabile in this arrangement sounds in the key of B flat whilst the PlentyMusic sheet music realisation plays back at 90 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. Improve music practice strategies by downloading this sheet music score and accompaniments from PlentyMusic. The music possesses classical beauty and is sustained in its quality and whilst attributed to Haydn is now known to have been composed by Roman Hoffstetter. The melody does sound easy to play although there are challenges in playing music of this era well and musically. In a performance, the articulation of the notes needs to be consistent - the melody is to be played legato with a pizzicato strings style detached accompaniment. A tempo in the range from 90-102 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the bar is suggested while individual instrument parts are appended to the full score available as a pdf download from the website. The repeats which are not marked in the video score do not play in the realisation or video score. mp3 clarinet accompaniments are available playing at 86, 90, 94, 98 and 102 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. The accompaniments feature the clarinet in Bb 2, clarinetin Bb 3 and bass clarinet parts and gives opportunity to the clarinet in Bb 1 player to practice in an ensemble context. A two bar click track sounding on a wood block can be heard at the opening of the accompaniments to establish the tempo. An ideal concert item because the music epitomises so much of classical style although surprisingly not composed by one of the famous and familiar classical composers. The repetitive element in the melodic writing is strong whilst the melody line combines chordal and stepwise shapes. The appoggiaturas do often create dissonance in the melodic line whilst the chromatic harmonic colour add to the music’s appeal and interest. In the PlentyMusic sheet music score pdf available for download the appoggiaturas (leaning notes) have been notated as they are to be played whilst the acciaccaturas (crushed notes) are indicated as ornaments with the appropriate symbol. In the video score all the ornaments are notated to add clarity to what is a frequently a contentious area. The ornaments, acciaccaturas (crushed notes) whi are probably best omitted in the early stages of playing the movement. This is an excellent movement for developing an understanding of performance practice and the understanding of dissonance, harmonic rhythm and other musical elements that feature in compositions from the classical era. One of the best reasons to play classical music is that it is a positive element in giving players an awareness of basic structures and shapes in music. Additionally, it is also one of the best ways of developing a secure performing/playing technique on an instrument. Classical style features elements of contrast particularly with regard to key and dynamics. As there is also a strong repetitive element that requires the music to played with both simplicity and consistency. The melody can be played with a variety of articulations but in the first instance particularly as an ensemble piece a legato approach is suggested. How the melody is shaped and played in the opening section is how the melody should be played for the rest of the movement. Listening to a number of performances of the score the music it is surprising how different interpretations can be particularly in respect to tempo, articulation of the melody line, the range of dynamics used and particularly the interpretation of ornaments whether appoggiaturas or acciaccaturas. Instrumentalists should appreciate that classical music can be interpreted differently and what is indicated on the page particularly with regard to ornamentation, phrasing and articulation are discussion points. Listening to available recordings will give an awareness how differently the same music can be played but appreciate that the music editor has been intent upon producing a score that is both consistent and has clarity. Roman Hoffstetter, the composer of this music, was interestingly a Benedictine monk, strongly influenced by Haydn in his music so much so that this perfect imitation of Haydn’s style has in the past been assimilated into Haydn’s own catalogue. Close

Lullaby (Weigenlied) Opus 49 No.4 arr. clarinet quartet | intermediate level | E Flat major

Lullaby by J. Brahms is a famous and familiar melody from the classical music repertoire. In this arrangement for clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarin Show More...

Lullaby by J. Brahms is a famous and familiar melody from the classical music repertoire. In this arrangement for clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet sounding in Eb with the PlentyMusic realisation of the sheet music score playing back at 76 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. The free sheet music score available from PlentyMusic has individual parts appended to the full score. Clarinettists can view and hear the video sheet music score on our YouTube channel. One of the most beautifully shaped and sounding melodies to be found in the history of Western music. A movement that needs to be played and communicate simplicity even though there is a hint of something a little more complex in the lilting accompaniment. Improve music practice strategies with PlentyMusic pdf sheet music and mp3 accompaniment downloads playing at 72, 76, 80, 84 and 88 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute with each being introduced by a two bar click beat. These are available from the website. The function of these accompaniments is to provide an ensemble playing experience from clarinet in Bb players in a home studio situation. The lilting clarinet in Bb parts 2 and 3 are quite challenging to play and so an introductory 2 bar wood block intro can be heard on the accompaniment mp3. Should an additional parts be required for a clarinet in Eb please advise the PlentyMusic office. The melody needs to be played legato and there is opportunity to use rubato or robbed time which is associated with the performance of music from this time. There are wide variations in tempo as to how the music is performed. The music editor suggests learning the movement at a tempo of 80 quarter note (crotchet beats) to the minute. This is an excellent performance piece that can be played at a range of tempi and players should experiment with the tempo particularly in different acoustics and venues. As a familiar melody it needs to be learnt thoroughly and is an excellent piece for the clarinet in Bb 1 player to memorise. This is a movement inviting interpretation during a performance. Players need to consider articulation, dynamic range and matters of tempo in their performances. An awareness of tempo rubato and its relevance to music performance in the romantic period would also be a valuable practical consideration. Formally the pattern of the music can be described as binary represented as ABAB The ornaments have been incorporated into the sheet music in the notation to add clarity of intention. Analysis reveals the simplicity of the movement from the harmonic point of view. The tonic, mediant, sub-dominant, dominant 7th and sub mediant chords in the scale all feature in either root position or an inversion. Analysis will help clarify how composers were so the reliant on the cycle of fifths at this time in music history. Brahms is an important and significant romantic composer associated with many large scale choral and instrumental works. Most of his music is technically very challenging to play. This song arrangement requires a relatively basic technique and is an excellent introduction to playing his music. Brahms was a family friend of the Schumann family and the connections between them are often referenced in commentaries, music works and performances. For those who have the time, skill set and imagination working the melody with a different accompaniment and stylistic approach can be a rewarding and broadening musical experience. Re-invention is an important aspect of music making and PlentyMusic are keen and willing to both listen and publish work in this category. Close

Sinfonia 11 BWV 797 arr. clarinet trio

Bach J.S. Sinfonia 11 BWV 797 arranged for clarinet trio The Sinfonia arrangements from PlentyMusic are excellent movements to improve music practice Show More...

Bach J.S. Sinfonia 11 BWV 797 arranged for clarinet trio The Sinfonia arrangements from PlentyMusic are excellent movements to improve music practice routines. The Sinfonia 11 in the key of Gm is a melancholy and appealing movement with some attractive rhythmic and melodic figuration. Clarinet accompaniments playing at 30, 32, 34 and 36 dotted quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute are available as mp3 downloads from PlentyMusic giving the clarinet in Bb 1 player the opportunity of playing in an ensemble. In this arrangement clarinets in Bb 1 and 2 play voices 1 and 2 whilst the bass clarinet contributes with voice 3. The clarinet trio realisation plays back at 32 dotted quarter note beats or crotchet beats to the minute. Appropriately transposed instrument parts are appended to the full music score. The sinfonias are excellent movements to develop and improve ensemble playing. There is a considerable melodic range in the three voices with each having a range of close to two octaves. Playing such ranges encourages the development of good intonation (playing in tune) and will make players aware of the importance of quality of tone. Clarinettists should be aiming for a legato in their playing. This movement is a very good test of ensemble playing particularly because of the tied notes across the bar lines and the imaginative rhythmic and melodic figuration that features in the movement. To fully appreciate the rhythmic fluidity of the movement instrumentalists should experience playing the movement in an ensemble. This fluidity in the rhythmic shapes possibly part explains one of the reasons why Bach’s music is often adapted and played by jazz musicians Rehearsal marks are in place at bars 17, 33, 48 and 65 on the music score although the music editor suggests that in music of this style players will know immediately when they not quite together. While this music sounds emotional and encourages an emotional response to listeners it needs to be performed with an objective approach. Ornaments have been omitted in the preparing of this music score although those familiar with the performance practice of baroque music may choose to add ornaments particularly at cadences. A guiding principle is that the any ornaments introduced should be imitated in the other voices. The Sinfonias were originally composed for harpsichord the keyboard instrument of J.S. Bach’s time although they do provide excellent ensemble material for various instrument combinations. This transcription keeps to original voicings and key although pitch levels in baroque times were lower than in contemporary times. The Sinfonias would have been mainly played on the keyboard instruments of Bach’s time available in the home which may have included the clavichord and harpsichord. The organ which is also a keyboard instrument required the need for a person to operate the bellows and was essentially a church instrument The Sinfonias are works conceived for three voices and feature compositional processes associated with contrapuntal writing of the baroque era: repetition, inversion, imitation and sequence feature strongly in this particular sinfonia The 3 part Sinfonias and 2 part Inventions are excellent movement for developing listening skills in ensemble playing. Do make use of these and other resources available on the PlentyMusic website. Score detail is usually omitted in music from the baroque era although there is scope to introduce crescendos and diminuendos with the rise and falls of the music and rits. and ralls are sometimes appropriate at cadences. Do make sure that your instrument is in tune before playing with an accompaniment. PlentyMusic realisations and accompaniments are pitched at A = 440 hertz. Close

Sinfonia 8 BWV 794 arr. clarinet trio

Bach J.S. Sinfonia 8 BWV 794 arranged for clarinet trio of 2 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet. The Sinfonia arrangements from PlentyMusic are excelle Show More...

Bach J.S. Sinfonia 8 BWV 794 arranged for clarinet trio of 2 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet. The Sinfonia arrangements from PlentyMusic are excellent movements to improve music practice routines. Download sheet music and accompaniments from PlentyMusic. The Sinfonia 8 in the key of F is a cheerful and appealing movement with some attractive figuration and a movement that can be played at a range of tempi. Clarinet parts appropriately transposed are appended to the full sheet music score. In this arrangement clarinet in B flat 1 plays the higher voice 1, the clarinet in Bb 2 plays the middle voice 2 and the bass clarinet voice 3. The trio realisation plays back at 76 quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute Ornaments have been omitted in the music scores although those familiar with the performance practice of the baroque may choose to add ornaments particularly at cadences. A guiding principle is that the any ornaments introduced should be imitated in the voices The Sinfonias were originally composed for harpsichord the keyboard instrument of J.S. Bach’s time although they do provide excellent ensemble material for various instrument combinations. This transcription keeps to original voicings and key although pitch levels in baroque times were lower than in contemporary times. The Sinfonias are works conceived for three voices and feature compositional processes associated with contrapuntal writing of the baroque era: repetition, inversion, imitation, augmentation, diminution, sequence. For all musicians it is important to understand these terms in both in playing and listening contexts. Accompaniments playing at 72, 86, 80 and 84 quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute and featuring the clarinet in Bb 2 and bass clarinet parts are available as mp3 downloads from PlentyMusic. The 3 part Sinfonias and 2 part Inventions are excellent movement for developing listening skills in ensemble playing. Do make use of these and other resources available on the PlentyMusic website. Score detail is usually omitted in music from the baroque era although there is scope to introduce crescendos and diminuendo’s with the rise and falls of the music and rits. and ralls are sometimes appropriate at cadences occurring in bars 7, 15 and 23. Close

Tambourin arr. clarinet quintet

F.J. Gossec’s Tambourin arranged for clarinet quintet. Improve music practice routines by downloading sheet music and piano accompaniments from Ple Show More...

F.J. Gossec’s Tambourin arranged for clarinet quintet. Improve music practice routines by downloading sheet music and piano accompaniments from PlentyMusic. A short but very appealing movement ideal as an encore for a well prepared clarinet group. The arrangement is scored for 3 clarinets in Bb and 2 bass clarinets. If there is an Eb clarinet available please advise the PlentyMusic Office and the music editor will update the score. The dance element is particular strong in French music and this is a dance inspired instrumental with a sectional structure has a strong repetitive element. The realisation plays back at 112 quarter note crotchet beats to the minute. The music editor has chosen not to indicate the tempo in the music score using an appropriate Italian term but players do need to play the movement at a brisk tempo. There is a modulation to the dominant key at bar 51 where some attention needs to be paid to playing the correct accidentals. A performance piece to challenge solo players to step up to advanced level standards although rhythmical and articulation aspects can be micro-managed in presenting the movement for performance to an audience There are some rhythmic options that can be explored in the clarinet in Bb 1 part in the section 51-57. The music editor suggests first playing the 7 bars as eighth note or quavers and then introducing rhythmic options and complexity of sixteenth notes, sixteenth note triplets and thirty second notes. (quavers, semi quavers and demisemiquavers!) Notes need to articulated clearly and particularly in the final section from bars 80 to 88 players may wish to play the sixteenth note semi quavers with a staccato touch. Individual parts for the 5 instruments are appended to the full score. Accompaniments / backing tracks are available playing at 112, 118, 124, 132 quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute giving the clarinet in Bb 1 the opportunity to practice in context. Gossec was a French composer and pupil of Rameau although little known outside France. He composed symphonies, operas and is identified with the revival of instrumental music in France. A colleague of Cherubini he introduced and conducted the symphonies of Haydn in Paris. France has always enjoyed a strong reputation for the quality of its woodwind playing and woodwind teaching and not surprisingly many of its composers have explored this tradition in their creative. Close

Sinfonia 4 BWV 790 arr. clarinet trio

J.S.Bach’s Sinfonias are excellent movements to improve music practice routines. An arrangement from PlentyMusic of J.S Bach’s Sinfonia 4 (BWV 79 Show More...

J.S.Bach’s Sinfonias are excellent movements to improve music practice routines. An arrangement from PlentyMusic of J.S Bach’s Sinfonia 4 (BWV 790) for clarinet trio. The arrangement is scored for two clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet. As there is a strong chromatic element in the writing careful attentions needs to be paid to the reading of the notes and particularly the note values in this melancholy movement. The clarinet trio realisation plays back at 42 quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute. This is an excellent ensemble piece for developing good intonation (playing in tune) in group music making. No ornaments are indicated in this arrangement. Those familiar with the performance practice of the baroque may choose to add ornaments particularly at cadences. This transcription keeps to original voicings and key although pitch levels in baroque times were lower than in contemporary times. The Sinfonias were originally composed for harpsichord the keyboard instrument of J.S. Bach’s time although they do provide excellent ensemble material for various instrument combinations. The Sinfonias are works conceived for three voices and feature compositional processes very much associated with contrapuntal writing of the baroque era namely: repetition, inversion, imitation, augmentation, diminution, sequence. For all musicians it is important to understand these terms in both a playing and listening context. Accompaniments that feature the clarinet 2 and bass clarinet parts are available playing at 40, 42, 44 and 46 quarter note or crotchet beats to the minute are available as mp3 downloads. The 3 part Sinfonias and 2 part Inventions are excellent movement for developing listening skills in ensemble playing. Do make use of these and other resources available on the PlentyMusic website. Close

Andante tranquillo | Second Movement from Organ Sonata Opus 65 No. 3 arranged for clarinet quintet

An intermediate level arrangement for clarinet quintet of a movement from a Mendelssohn organ sonata. Scored for 4 clarinets in Bb and a bass clarinet Show More...

An intermediate level arrangement for clarinet quintet of a movement from a Mendelssohn organ sonata. Scored for 4 clarinets in Bb and a bass clarinet, individual parts for instrumentalists are appended to the full score available as a pdf download from PlentyMusic. This is the second movement from the Organ Sonata Opus 65 No.3 transposed to sound in the key of Bb. It is essentially a chorale or hymn much in keeping with the chorale of J. S. Bach although Mendelssohn’s harmonic language is chromatic rather than diatonic. There is opportunity to slow down and pause at the ends of phrases although there is only one such marking in the sheet music score. There are some octave transpositions in the flute and oboe parts. Playing chorale arrangements like this are excellent for developing ensemble playing and good intonation. A generally quiet movement, clarinet players should be aiming for a legato in their playing. The realisation plays back at 72 quarter note beats to the minute. mp3 accompaniments are available playing at 72, 76 and 80 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute enabling clarinet in Bb 1 players to participate in ensemble activities as part of their practice routines. Should there be a requirement for a clarinet in Eb part to substitute for the Clarinet in Bb 1 part please advise the PlentyMusic office. Mendelssohn was an extremely popular composer in England. Described as a romantic composer he leans more to the classical line of the tradition along with composers Schubert (1797 – 1828) Chopin (1810 – 1849) and Brahms (1833- 1897) rather than the more radical represented by Berlioz (1803 – 1869), Liszt (1811 – 1886), and Wagner (1813-1883). Schumann (1810 - 1856) is the composer who interestingly links the two threads. Close

Cantilene from Organ Sonata No.11 Opus 148 arranged for clarinet quartet

This arrangement for clarinet quartet of Rheinberger’s Cantilene from his Organ Sonata No.11 is scored for three clarinets in B flat and bass clarin Show More...

This arrangement for clarinet quartet of Rheinberger’s Cantilene from his Organ Sonata No.11 is scored for three clarinets in B flat and bass clarinet. Instrumental parts for individual instruments are appended to the full score. Accompaniments are also available allowing the clarinet 1 player to enjoy ensemble practice in context. There is a one bar eighth note (quaver) click track before the clarinets 2 and 3 and the bass clarinet start to sound. The accompaniments play back at 80, 84 and 88 eighth (quaver) notes to the minute. Rheinberger was a prolific composer and made a significant contribution to the organ music repertoire. Born in Liechtenstein he spent most of his life in Germany. He was also a distinguished teacher from the years he spent in Munich and Richard Strauss was just one of many distinguished pupils. J.G. Rheinberger is a name familiar to organists but like many church composers his music is not widely known outside the music world in which he worked. The Cantilena is the second movement of Rheinberger’s Organ Sonata No. 11 in D minor published as his Opus 148. The work was composed in 1888. Rheinberger was particularly influenced by J.S. Bach, F. Mendelssohn, R. Schumann and J. Brahms in his compositional approach. While the piece is reminiscent of Bach’s Arioso style the strong chromatic element in the writing belongs very much to its time identified as the late romantic period in music history. The movement is scored for three clarinets in B flat and bass clarinet. Instrumental parts for individual instruments are appended to the full score. Please advise the PlentyMusic office if you require an Eb clarinet included. A beautifully crafted score this is really a late 19th century manifestation of a Bach chorale harmonisation with the influence of Brahms chromatic harmony. Apart from the beauty of the melody the counterpoint particularly in the inner parts of the accompaniment is a joy to explore. There are few dynamic markings in the score which is actually very untypical of music scores of the time. The realisation plays back at 84 eighth note beats to the minute. Clarinetists should play with an awareness of the eighth note or quaver pulse. Performers would be wise to study the harmonic outline and examine the voice leading in the individual parts. Careful attention needs to be paid to the accidentals and tied notes in the score. The music scores available are often contradictory particularly in respect to the tied notes in the inner parts. The small decorative do not always sound in the realisations and are best omitted certainly when learning the piece. Cantilena is an Italian/Latin word suggesting both lullaby and song. A movement that is intended to be played quietly in a sustained approach. The melody needs to be played with a legato whilst the bass line is played with a detached or staccato touch. This is an excellent movement for developing good intonation in ensemble playing. The parts all need to be played with rhythmic accuracy and security.The melody explores several rhythmic motifs often featuring tied notes. Much of the writing features off-beat rhythms related to the resolving of the dissonances in the inner parts. The influence of the Bach 4 part chorale harmonisation is paramount together with the chromatic harmony that can be readily identified in the music of J. Brahms. There are several arrangements available from the PlentyMusic website for both ensembles and solo instruments with piano accompaniment. Close

Spanish Dance No.5 (Andaluza) arranged for clarinet quartet

Spanish Dance No. 5 by E. Granados from PlentyMusic arranged for clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarinets in B flat and bass clarinet. Individual parts Show More...

Spanish Dance No. 5 by E. Granados from PlentyMusic arranged for clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarinets in B flat and bass clarinet. Individual parts are appended to the full score in the pdf download. This popular and appealing intermediate level movement dates from 1890 and its use of the phyrgian scale gives it a characteristic Spanish identity. Granados (1867 - 1916) was a Catalan composer and his 12 Spanish Dances date from 1890. His music identifies so much with the sound world of Spain and he is often described as a nationalist composer. Interestingly much of his music is more familiar to audiences transcribed for classical guitar. Changing time signatures are a feature of the movement, with an emphasis on the second beat of the bar and the use of accents and pauses. Ostinato is a term that could be used to describe the accompaniment figuration that features strongly in the movement. An ostinato is a repeating pattern usually repeated through a composition. Both acciaccaturas (crushed notes) and appoggiaturas (leaning notes) feature in the arrangement. The Spanish Dance No. 5 is a very appealing work in ABA (ternary form) which was very much the composing default for instrumental compositions for the time described as the late romantic or nationalist era in music history. The tempo indication given by the composer in the piano score is Andantino, quasi Allegretto indicating a pulse of slightly more than a walking pace with the middle section marked Andante. These markings possibly suggest the music should be played at a faster tempo than demonstrated in the realisation which plays back at a tempo of 47|94|47 beats to the minute. The first and last section are in 6/8 time whilst the Andante B section is in 3/4 time. The slowing downs at the end of phrases and the return to a tempo or tempo primo are not indicated or marked in the music score although they are an important and necessary aspect of any performance as is the use of tempo rubato. Pauses which are often introduced in a performance also are not indicated in the accompaniments and realisations. This is a great movement for instrumental players to explore tempo. Ideally the first and last section should also be played at the same tempo adding an additional performance challenge. The music can be played and given a more dance like character if some of the melodic notes are played staccato. The music editor suggests that this is an aspect of performance that can be explored although the suggestion is that playing should never be too exaggerated. The last note in the arrangement can possibly be omitted. The music editor suggests it is place as the dominant note of the succeeding Spanish Dance No. 6. Representing the Spanish musical elements in the staff notation system is a challenge and clearly some comprises are needed particularly in respect to the notation of scales, harmonic colour, dynamics, tempo and ornamentation. The essential elements of Spanish music are its dramatic character often achieved by modal shifts from minor to major and vice versa, its use of the phrygian scale and rhythms derived from the popular dance rhythms of its diverse and rich culture. When music that identifies with a country or region is presented in a notated music score there are comprises to be made in respect to representing the musical elements. The music editor always suggests listening to performances of music to have an understanding particularly of contemporary practice. Performers should also understand that there are some ambiguities, contradictions and often errors in the available printed music scores. This is an appealing piece of music with many challenges from the performance, music setting and analysis point of view. The composer was clearly challenging the musical boundaries of his time in respect to how the music of his nation could be represented as notated music. Close

Lascia ch’io pianga (Let me cry) arranged clarinet quartet

Handel’s Lascia ch’io pianga (Let me cry) from the opera Rinaldo in an improver level instrumental arrangement for clarinet quartet comprising 3 c Show More...

Handel’s Lascia ch’io pianga (Let me cry) from the opera Rinaldo in an improver level instrumental arrangement for clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarinets in B flat and a bass clarinet. Instrument parts are attached to the full score which is available from PlentyMusic as a pdf download. If circumstances arise then there the music could be performed by a ensemble with each part played by more than one instrument. The aria or song is taken from the opera Rinaldo which first appeared in 1711 and was subsequently revised in 1733. It is in ABA form and based on the sarabande rhythm which has the stress on the second beat of the three beats in a bar. When sung the Da Capo section would be an opportunity for the soloist to improvise and ornament the melody and this is an option available for the top line players in this instrumental arrangement. The music editor suggests that it appropriate to keep to the style of the period in the first instance but it is also a piece in which the stylistic element can be explored. Those who enjoy improvising can always record their work can send it as an mp3 to the PlentyMusic office for feedback. The score has been notated in 3|2 time keeping to the conventions of the original notation but could quite readily be notated in 3|4 time. The trill in bar has been written out in the video score which is available to view on the PlentyMusic YouTube channel. This is music that is very appropriate music for a solemn processional in a social context context. It is usual to present baroque scores with minimal score detail although in this score there is some indication of appropriate dynamics. The arrangement is in the original key of F major although the tempo for the quartet is more Larghetto than Largo which was the tempo indication in the opera. The music in the video score plays back at a tempo of 66 half note or minim beats to the minute. The music editor observes that instrumental arrangements of a vocal piece are invariably played at a faster tempo. This is an opportunity for an improver level musician to be playing what is a great piece of music. It is what the music editor identifies as being a potential “stepping stone” for many instrument players. There is an interesting story as to the origins of the sarabande rhythm for those who enjoy researching the history of forms and rhythmic patterns particularly those associated with dances. Close

Invitación (Invitation) arr. clarinet quartet

Invitación by I. Cervantes is a short attractive work. This intermediate level arrangement from PlentyMusic for clarinet quartet is in the key of Am Show More...

Invitación by I. Cervantes is a short attractive work. This intermediate level arrangement from PlentyMusic for clarinet quartet is in the key of Am and features the Cuban habanera pattern. The arrangement is scored for 3 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet whilst Individual parts for players are appended to the full music score in the pdf download. It is an excellent piece for ensemble players to help their tuning and intonation by listening to both their own playing and the playing of others. The chromatic notes and modal shifts also make it challenging to play absolutely in tune. The music editor suggests that it is the ideal competition or test piece. The rhythmic patterns need to be secure and possibly learnt by clapping and tapping drills particularly in the context of an ensemble performance. There is surprising intensity in the music of Cervantes created by the tonal/modal ambivalence and by the many accidentals in the strong contrapuntal lines. Where appropriate some octave transpositions have been made in the lines to keep to the best and most appropriate range of the instruments. Most of Cervantes movements are very short and benefit from being played through twice. The music editor has not actually made use of repeat signs in the music scores. The tempo of the score is marked Moderato with the movement able to be played at a range of tempi from around 64 to 76 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. In this arrangement the realisation plays back at 64 quarter note beats to the minute. The performance practice of the music of Cervantes varies particularly regarding tempo and the use of rubato (speeding up and slowing down) and does not benefit from the same tradition of playing as movements by more mainstream composers. The advice is simply to listen and learn from the recordings that are available. Whilst there is the scope for more flexibility in performance than demonstrated by the realisations the music editor suggests the avoidance of any exaggerated playing. Ignacio Cervantes was born in Havana, Cuba and composed many short pieces for the piano most of which are imbued with the rhythms and colour of his homeland. The habanera rhythmic pattern features strongly in his music. Should some re-scoring be required please advise the PlentyMusic Office. Please do let us hear and share your live performances which can be forwarded as mp3 and mp4 files to the PlentyMusic Office. Just advise us by email that you have a recording to share. Close

Los Tres Golpes (The Three Knocks) arr. clarinet quartet

Los Tres Golpes (The Three Knocks) by the Cuban composer Ignacio Cervantes is a movement that explores the habanera pattern. The clarinet quartet arra Show More...

Los Tres Golpes (The Three Knocks) by the Cuban composer Ignacio Cervantes is a movement that explores the habanera pattern. The clarinet quartet arrangement enables #clarinettists to explore and develop tone, articulation and dynamics in their playing. The arrangement is scored for 3 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet.The realisation for Los Tres Golpes (The Three Knocks) is presented with a repeat played which is common when Cervantes music is performed. The playback tempo is 84 bpm. The sheet music scores has a repeat in place although this is an editorial addition. The music has been transposed from the original key of E minor to G minor. The movement can be played at a variety of tempo although the music editor suggests that it is easier to decide when the movement is being played too slowly rather than too quickly! The choice of tempo is dependent on the instrument combination, the performance context and the acoustic of the recording or performance venue. There is scope to explore tempo rubato in a performance. These miniatures provide excellent playing material for players because they provide so many of the musical elements that feature in Cuban music. whether in art music, folk or a popular music context. Cervantes was a composer and musician who assimilated the music elements of his home country in all his work. As he studied music formally in Cuba and in Europe his music is generally presented in a way that lends itself to being arranged in the traditions of the Western music tradition. The contrapuntal element in his music is very strong and whereas formally Cervantes always has clear melodic and harmonic direction musical ideas are presented in a sectional context which are generally repeated. The suggestion is of a very quick and inventive mind particularly regarding his use of the habanera pattern. The melodic line in its original form for piano has a broad range (more than 3 octaves) and for many of the arrangements it is necessary to utilise octave transpositions to enable the most appropriate range of the featured solo instrument to be explored. For those interested in the voicing of the composer’s original score download the piano version which is available as a free score. The original PlentyMusic context for this movement was in the Ragtime and Relations Area of Study in which the focus was exploring syncopated rhythms including the habanera pattern. In 2021, the scores have been reviewed and a number of additional arrangements have been added to the PlentyMusic website. Do feedback to PlentyMusic comments about the scores and particularly the octave transpositions that could possibly be re-considered in the light of performances. Close

Adiós A Cuba (Farewell to Cuba) arr. clarinet sextet

Adiós A Cuba (Farewell to Cuba) is one of Ignacio Cervantes most popular works. This arrangement from PlentyMusic for clarinet sextet of clarinet in Show More...

Adiós A Cuba (Farewell to Cuba) is one of Ignacio Cervantes most popular works. This arrangement from PlentyMusic for clarinet sextet of clarinet in Eb, 4 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet is an intermediate level arrangement and available as a free score. If no clarinet in Eb is available substitute a flute 1 part from the free score for wind sextet. The movement features many of the rhythmic patterns characteristic of Cuban music. It is an excellent movement for encouraging rhythmic accuracy and developing a sense and awareness of pulse in ensemble music making. The rhythmic shapes need to be possibly learnt and made secure by being clapped/tapped. In the opening section with the strong repetitive element players should be aiming at tonal and dynamic contrast in their playing of the repeating motif. There are some idiomatic rhythmic shapes in the writing whilst the musical texture lends itself to being very suitable for arrangement as an ensemble piece. This is music that features modal shifts and elements of chromaticism. The realisation plays back at 60 quarter note beats to the minute. This is music that allows for subtle tempo changes in performance whether it be speeding up, slowing down or returning to an “a tempo” marking. Whilst rits. or slowing down feature in the realisation the accelerando though marked is ignored. There is an opportunity to perhaps to included pauses in the music at bars 17 and 33 although they are not indicated in the scores. In the video score the instrument parts are notated at written pitch. Octave transpositions have been explored in the lines to keep to the most appropriate ranges of instruments. Players may well want to explore octave ranges of the instrument they are playing. The music editor suggests downloading the free piano sheet music score from the website to understand the relative pitch elements of the music score. Ignacio Cervantes was born in Havana, Cuba and this is one of his most popular pieces and melancholy in character. The habanera rhythmic pattern features strongly in the music of the composer who mostly composed for the piano. His piano pieces tend to be quite short but are idiomatic and imbued with the colours and rhythms of his home country. If PlentyMusic users require some re-scoring of the movement please advise the PlentyMusic Office of your requirements. Instrumental parts are appended to the full music score which can be downloaded as a pdf. Close

Minuet and Trio in E Flat D.335 arr. clarinet quartet

The Minuet & Trio in E Flat by Franz Schubert is an excellent performance piece and this arrangement is for clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarinets in Show More...

The Minuet & Trio in E Flat by Franz Schubert is an excellent performance piece and this arrangement is for clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarinets in Bb and a bass clarinet. Whilst the work is described as a Minuet with two Trios only the second Trio has been used in this arrangement. Minuet and Trio are performed without the written repeats sounding in the realisation. Individual instrument parts are appended to the full score which can be downloaded as pdf file from the PlentyMusic website. In a performance the Minuet and Trio should be performed as follows. Minuet AABB | Trio AABB | Minuet AB. The playback tempo of the chamber music scores is 116 quarter note beats to the bar whilst both the Minuet and Trio are played at the same tempo. Legato playing is required in the playing of the Trio section. Many of the melodic ideas from the music from the classical and romantic era can be understood to be almost like conversations. The movement was originally a work for solo piano. The triplet figuration is a prominent feature in the melodic line which has a range of two octaves in essentially a two, three sometimes four-part texture. The small ornamental notes in bar 41 do not sound in the realisation and possibly are best not added until the movement can be played competently. This an excellent movement for developing the playing of a range of different articulations. Players should explore the dynamic element in their performances exploring contrasting dynamics. A movement with clarity of intention particularly in respect to its rhythmic detail. Regular 8 bar phrases feature predominantly. The pause marks indicated in the sheet music score are an aspect of the score detail that can be explored in a live performance. The compositional basis of much music from the classical era is concerned with the exploration of contrast. This is a feature that can be readily identified in the music of Schubert. There are many arrangements to be discovered on the PlentyMusic website featuring a range of instruments and ensembles. Should any changes, re-scoring or arrangements for another instrument grouping be needed please contact the PlentyMusic Office and the music editor will respond to the request. Individual clarinets parts are appended to the full score which is available as a pdf download from PlentyMusic. Close

Minuet in A Flat arr. clarinet quintet of 4 clarinets in B Flat and bass clarinet

The clarinet quintet arrangement of the Minuet is available from PlentyMusic as a free score. The full score has appended parts and is available as a Show More...

The clarinet quintet arrangement of the Minuet is available from PlentyMusic as a free score. The full score has appended parts and is available as a one file pdf download. Using the PlentyMusic android app the music could be printed from a smart phone. The clarinet quintet arrangement is scored for 4 clarinets in Bb and a bass clarinet. The Minuet and Trio is performed without the repeats in the Minuet sounding in the realisation. A quiet enchanting movement that demonstrates how much that Franz Schubert was a chamber musician. The falling melodic shape / motif at the end of the Minuet is a lovely challenge for performers to deliver musically and accurately. It is an excellent movement for developing an understanding of a musical texture in the romantic era. The music editor suggests a one to the bar feel in performance. A tempo of 56 dotted half notes (minim) beats to the bar is used in the realisation. Another challenging aspect of performing this Minuet is distinguishing the notes that are tied from the ones that are slurred. If you would like the movement to be scored for different instruments please advise the PlentyMusic Office and one of the team will explore the possibilities. PlentyMusic would be interested in hearing and seeing any performances of this movement either in mp3 or mp4 format. Close

Study in Canon No.5 arr. clarinet in B Flat, bass clarinet and piano

A quite vivid movement although one isn’t sure what Schumann is endeavouring to describe although from the music view a march pattern is suggested b Show More...

A quite vivid movement although one isn’t sure what Schumann is endeavouring to describe although from the music view a march pattern is suggested both by the time signature and the musical ideas. The arrangement for clarinet in Bb, bass clarinet and piano has a playback tempo of 100 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. The music has been transposed down a tone and sounds in the key of A minor. A canon arises in the description of a musical piece simply because musical ideas are imitated by another voice or instrument. It doesn’t necessarily describe the overall form or structure of a piece. The Study in Canon No. 5 is in three sections ABA’ with Section B beginning at bar 37 and the varied repeat of A at bar 83. The imitation in this movement is shared first between the clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet and in the final section between the piano and clarinet in Bb. The trio versions are strong simply because the contrasting timbres enable the musical ideas and imitation to be communicated more readily. Understand that the canonic element in Schumann’s time references all the musical elements and not just pitch: dynamics, articulation, ornamentation are all part of the canonic process. The crushed notes or acciaccaturas are a prominent musical feature. This is essentially a study in the articulation of short notes and occasional longer notes. Compositional process is evident from bar 49 where the canonic element involves inversion. This is a challenging music setting to engrave and prepare for print mainly because the score has so much detail which is not easy to represent with clarity on the sheet music page. Accompaniments are available as mp3 downloads featuring the violoncello and piano parts playing at 92, 96, 100 and 104 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. This enables a clarinet in Bb player to incorporate ensemble playing into their practice routines. The accompaniments are recorded at 256kbps. Parts for the two clarinets appropriately transposed are appended to the full score. Close

Study in Canon No.1 arr. clarinet in B flat, bass clarinet and piano

Kirchner’s trio arrangements of Schumann's 6 Studies in Canon are an additional exploration of the textural and timbral element of Schumann’s orig Show More...

Kirchner’s trio arrangements of Schumann's 6 Studies in Canon are an additional exploration of the textural and timbral element of Schumann’s original writing. The trio realisation plays back at 72 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. The tempo indication is to play the movement “Not too quickly” which be played in quite a broad tempo range. In the video score, which can be found by clicking the YouTube link on the PlentyMusic home page, the ornaments have been written out to add clarity to what often is an ambiguous area. The PlentyMusic solution is not intended to be prescriptive but the suggestions are based on the best of current performance practice. The ornaments can be omitted and this is probably sensible when the movement is first being studied. Accompaniments are available from the PlentyMusic website in mp3 format that enable the clarinet in Bb player to explore the movement as an ensemble piece. Recorded at 256kbps quality they play back at 64, 68, 72, 76 and 80 quarter note beats to the minute. The rhythmic detail requires some attention particularly with the tied notes across the bar line creating what are syncopated patterns. Pianists may well make of use the sustaining pedal, particularly in the section from bar 25, although its use is not indicated in the sheet in the sheet music score. Schumann’s 6 Studies in Canon Opus 56 exist in several arrangements for many different instrument combinations and are well worth exploring particular as an introduction to chamber music playing. Close

Study in Canon No.6 Opus 56 arr. clarinet in B Flat, bass clarinet and piano

This version has been transposed down a semitone from the original key of B to Bb. T. Kirchner, arranged the six Schumann’s Studies in Canon expandi Show More...

This version has been transposed down a semitone from the original key of B to Bb. T. Kirchner, arranged the six Schumann’s Studies in Canon expanding the original concept into music to be enjoyed by a chamber group. This is a quiet slow movement in reflective mood with a compositional approach that is vocal in style and reminiscent of Bach’s 4 part chorale writing although with chromatic romantic harmony. The melody is not always in the top line and as in 4 part chorale writing it is the tenor line that often needs to be prominent. The second middle section is presented as a fugal exposition. The final section is introduced by a dotted rhythm as an upbeat in bar 32 and returns to the mood and style of the first section although this final section has more contrast and is more dramatic. The realisation plays back at 60 quarter note beats to the minute with the tempo is marked adagio in the score. This is a challenging movement from the music reading point of view because of the chromaticism and tied notes. For those wishing to see how the ornaments in the realisation are played refer to the video score on the PlentyMusicCo YouTube channel. Simply click the link on the PlentyMusic home page and search for the score. Trills begin on the note. There are many arrangements of this particular movement and the music editor suggests that along with Schumann’s other Studies in Canon they are ideal works to introduce intermediate level players to chamber music playing. Accompaniments are available enabling the clarinet in Bb player to explore and develop their ensemble skills. Four accompaniments are available in the tempo range from 58 to 64 quarter beats to the minute. Do advise the Plenty Music Office if you are playing with a bass clarinet and require just the piano sounding in the accompaniment. Close

Study in Canon No.2 clarinet in B Flat, bass clarinet and piano

Theodor Kirchner was a highly regarded musician, composer and arranger whose career sadly did not live up to expectation because of personal failings. Show More...

Theodor Kirchner was a highly regarded musician, composer and arranger whose career sadly did not live up to expectation because of personal failings. The trio arrangements of Schumann’s Studies in Canon date from 1888. In this arrangement for clarinet in Bb, bass clarinet and piano the imitative and canonic features of the music are very evident in the sharing of the lines between the instruments. The German term «Min innigen ausdruck » meaning with ‘heartfelt expression’ is used to describe the mood of the music at the beginning of the movement although the music editor has favoured the use of Italian terms in the score detail. There are some octave transpositions in the flute part to accommodate the range of the instrument. Parts for the clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet appropriately transposed are appended to the full score. The music editor would like to hear from bass clarinet players as to the practicality of playing the low notes in the score. The Studies in Canon Opus 56 of Schumann are excellent pieces for the music student because they refererence music of the past with the chromatic language of the romantic period and are appealing to play. The Opus 56 collection can be appreciated on so many levels and the pieces exist in a number of different arrangements. This is music that re-invents J.S.Bach style than directly imitating or copying it. The playback score or realisation is clearly not as nuanced as a live performance. The texture is straightforward to understand in that there are two melodies exploring the canonic and imitative aspects of the music, a chordal accompaniment and a bass line. The realisation plays at 66 dotted quarter note beats to the minute notes to the with the occasional slowing down or rit. The score detail in place in the sheet music score is particularly relevant to the tonal qualities of modern instruments. In addition to Schumann’s the original composition for pedal piano there are many arrangements of the Opus 56 collection namely Georges Bizet’s for piano duet and Claude Debussy’s for two pianos. The use of the sustaining pedal whilst recommended has not been indicated in the sheet music score. There is also opportunity to explore tempo rubato in a performance. In romantic music this refers to the give and take (speeding up and slowing down) as far as tempo is concerned. The mp3 accompaniment downloads available enable players to enjoy an ensemble music experience playing the clarinet in Bb part as a solo. The piano and bass clarinet sound in the accompaniment. Accompaniment 1 plays at 60 dotted quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute, Accompaniment 2 at 63 dotted quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute Accompaniment 3 at 66 dotted quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute and Accompaniment 4 at 69 dotted quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. There is a two bar count in at the beginning of the accompaniments. Close

Shenandoah arr. clarinet quartet

Shenandoah is a traditional American folk song dating from the 19th century. The song exists in many forms and arrangements becoming popular as a sea Show More...

Shenandoah is a traditional American folk song dating from the 19th century. The song exists in many forms and arrangements becoming popular as a sea shanty in the 1800’s. The beautiful yet powerful melody is suited to being both sung and played as an instrumental. The melody is also quite expansive and clearly open to different interpretations. This arrangement is for a clarinet quartet comprising 3 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet sounding in the key of Eb. The playback tempo is 84 quarter note beats to the minute and individual parts appropriately transposed are appended to the full score. Close

When The Saints Go Marching In arr. clarinet in B Flat choir

When The Saints Go Marching In arranged for clarinet choir sounding in the key of F. There are parts for 4 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet. The play Show More...

When The Saints Go Marching In arranged for clarinet choir sounding in the key of F. There are parts for 4 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet. The playback tempo is 100 half note or minim beats to the minute whilst the music is notated in cut time. Traditional American music songs such as “When The Saints Go Marching In” are excellent pieces for developing an understanding of the style elements associated with the performance of 20th century popular music. There is opportunity for players to explore the arrangement - the bass line played by the pianist keyboard player is open to being played with some rhythmic variation particularly during the playing of the repeat sections. Many melodies and lyrics that are recognised as spirituals are often a synthesis of several songs that had their origins as work songs before, during and after the American Civil War. Songs sung from the 1850’s and onwards were perhaps published around 1918 and then first recorded in the 1920’s. The history of the song is well documented and many there are performances to be discovered embracing a range of styles and different types of performing group. Individual parts for the five instruments are appended to the full score. Close

Pieds-en-l’air arr clarinet choir

This is an excellent piece for developing legato playing and instrument tone and this arrangement is for clarinets divided into parts I, II and III ( Show More...

This is an excellent piece for developing legato playing and instrument tone and this arrangement is for clarinets divided into parts I, II and III (ideally two instruments or more on each line) and bass clarinet. It is also a good test piece because a successful performance requires an awareness of the modal influence that exists in the lines of the music evident in the conflicting accidentals that feature in the score. For a clarinet group to play this piece perfectly in tune is quite a challenge because it requires the participants to be aware of each other’s part and rôle. The time signature is also a bit unusual but think of it as three groups of 3 whilst the tempo of the realization is played at 132 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. Rhythmically there are one or two moments that need attention particularly in the inner parts and the voice leading is at times quite challenging to follow. Individual clarinet parts are appended to the full music score. Peter Warlock’s career was sadly a short lived one but he did make some important contributions to the repertoire including the Capriol Suite from which this particular movement is taken. He was very interested in folk and Elizabethan music and used the name Warlock as a pseudonym for his composition work. He was a close friend of Delius and also worked as a music journalist using his real name which was Philip Heseltine. Warlock’s particular interest in music was in discovering and exploring the modal quality of English music through its folk song and its Elizabethan vocal music. The Capriol Suite captures what could be described as a neo-Elizabethan idiom and spirit quite perfectly and it is well worth listening to the whole work played in its orchestral arrangement. Warlock’s was in many ways an unfulfilled life but it is evident in both his instrumental and vocal music that he had a quite exceptional musical ear and a true understanding of English music. Close

No Bailes Más! (Dance No More) arr. clarinet quartet

In this arrangement for clarinet quartet the specified instruments are three clarinets in Bb and a bass clarinet. The score is formatted as a one docu Show More...

In this arrangement for clarinet quartet the specified instruments are three clarinets in Bb and a bass clarinet. The score is formatted as a one document pdf file with individual parts appropriately transposed for the four clarinets appended to the full score. Ignacio Cervantes was a Cuban composer born in the capital city of Havana in 1847. He had piano lessons with Louis Moreau Gottschalk before travelling to Paris to further his music studies with Charles Valentin Alkan amongst others. This piece originates as a piano solo in the key of Eb whilst this realisation sounds in the key of D it plays at a tempo of 84 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. Many performers play through the piece twice although no repeat signs are indicated in the score. Much of Cervantes piano music is well suited to being played by a variety of instrument combinations as they are well crafted and have great musical appeal. The habanera rhythmic shape also features strongly. Close

Off To California arr. clarinet in B Flat & bass clarinet in B Flat

The hornpipe is found in the folk music of England, Scotland and Ireland and has a traditional association with sailors in that dancing was used on lo Show More...

The hornpipe is found in the folk music of England, Scotland and Ireland and has a traditional association with sailors in that dancing was used on long sea journeys to both encourage fitness. Hornpipes are usually associated with other hornpipes in a performance context in what is described as a dance set. Most folk music is played from memory and both memory and ensemble playing should be encouraged when performing this style of music. In this arrangement for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet in Bb the realisation plays at 132 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute and the hornpipe is in AB (Binary) form. The music needs to be played with a triplet feel as demonstrated in the realisation. The repeats are not played and there is no ornamentation of the melodic line in this two part version. Folk music scores are generally presented with minimal score detail as is the case with this score. Understand that the playing of ornaments whilst relevant in repetitive music of this kind requires a special study and is governed by the instrument being played, the music tradition being represented and sometimes both geography and even locality. A study of ornamentation in folk music the music editor suggests is not for the faint hearted! There are also examples of hornpipes in baroque music including Handel’s Water Music. Three accompaniments are available, with repeats, with the bass clarinet playing the bass line at tempi of (1) 132 (2) 120 and (3) 110 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. There is two bar click track introduction before the music starts to play. Close

Swing Low, Sweet Chariot arr. clarinet choir

This is a very popular piece of music that in many respects transcends idiom, style and it could be suggested culture. This improver level arrangement Show More...

This is a very popular piece of music that in many respects transcends idiom, style and it could be suggested culture. This improver level arrangement for clarinet choir of 3 clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet is in common time although some of the accompanying chords and rhythmic shapes have been updated to give a more contemporary style. This familiar spiritual gained popularity during the 1960’s with the Civil Rights movement and since 1988 it has become associated with the English rugby team. This arrangement explores a gentle rock style whilst the realisation plays back at a tempo of 100 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the bar. The full score includes a piano short score and individual parts for the three clarinets in Bb and bass clarinet are appended to the full score. Close

Swing Low, Sweet Chariot arr. bass clarinet & piano

This is a very popular piece of music that in many respects transcends idiom, style and at times it could be suggested culture. This improver level ar Show More...

This is a very popular piece of music that in many respects transcends idiom, style and at times it could be suggested culture. This improver level arrangement for bass clarinet and piano is in common time whilst some of the accompanying chords and rhythmic shapes have been updated to give a contemporary rock style. There are so many interpretations that it is almost impossible to decide how it should be sung, played and performed. This familiar spiritual gained popularity during the 1960’s with the Civil Rights movement and since 1988 it has become associated with the English rugby team. The realisation plays back at a tempo of 100 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the bar whilst the repeat is not played in the realisation. As players become familiar with the content and chordal structure there is opportunity to develop the melodic material through improvisation in an additional repeat especially if it is possible to recruit a percussion player. A bass clarinet part appropriately transposed is appended to the full score. The sounding key is F. Close

Skye Boat Song arr. bass clarinet & piano

This familiar Scottish folk song begins and ends with a chorus (chorus-verse-chorus) and whilst its text describes the escape of Bonnie Prince Charles Show More...

This familiar Scottish folk song begins and ends with a chorus (chorus-verse-chorus) and whilst its text describes the escape of Bonnie Prince Charles the song is often sung as a lullaby. This improver level arrangement is in 6/8 time and is suited to being played by a number of instrument combinations This arrangement keeps the melody as usually as it usually sung but some of the accompanying chords have been updated to give a more contemporary feel. A bass clarinet part appropriately transposed is appended to the full score. There are three piano accompaniments available playing at (1) 52 (2) 50 (3) 48 dotted quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute. Close

Prelude in C arr. flute, clarinet in B flat & bass clarinet

An arrangement for flute, clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet of the Little Prelude BWV 936 originally composed for the keyboard.

Notturno arr. clarinet choir

The arrangement is scored for four clarinets and bass clarinet and uses the first theme from the third movement of Borodin’s String Quartet No. 2 in Show More...

The arrangement is scored for four clarinets and bass clarinet and uses the first theme from the third movement of Borodin’s String Quartet No. 2 in D. Dating from 1881 the movement is commonly referred to as “Notturno” meaning night piece and is a very melodic movement and like much of Borodin’s music is very adaptable to being played by a number of different instrument combinations. There are 4 sections in the arrangement – theme, repeat of the theme with a varied and fuller accompaniment, the theme played in canon and a closing section which can best be be described as a coda. A tempo of 70 quarter note beats to the minute is used in the realisation and there are some octave transposition in the parts whilst the appoggiaturas that appear in the string quartet score have been omitted. Wherever possible material from the original work has been incorporated into the arrangement whilst individual clarinet parts are appended to a copy of the full score. Close

The Happy Farmer arr. bass clarinet & piano

A movement from Schumann's Album for the Young Opus 68 (1848) which was composed at a very happy time in his life. This is a very uplifting movement w Show More...

A movement from Schumann's Album for the Young Opus 68 (1848) which was composed at a very happy time in his life. This is a very uplifting movement with a tempo of 110 quarter note beats (crotchet) to the minute used in this arrangement for bass clarinet accompanied by the piano. The solo part is also appended to the piano score. There is a two bar click introduction on the accompaniment mp3. Close

Rondo (Sonatina) arr. two B Flat & bass clarinets

This is an attractive piece which has in the recent past been used as the basis for a pop tune. In this arrangement for two Bb clarinets ,and bass cla Show More...

This is an attractive piece which has in the recent past been used as the basis for a pop tune. In this arrangement for two Bb clarinets ,and bass clarinet of the first section of the piece, the melody is played by the first clarinet in Bb while the chords and bass are played by the second clarinet and bass clarinet respectively. A tempo of 110 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute is suggested and the sounding key is F The rondo was composed by Clementi, known in his own time as a teacher, composer, performer and even as a manufacturer of pianos spending most of his adult life living in England. His Opus 36 Sonatinas are a rich source of music for piano players. A rondo is a piece with a recurring theme although only the A or first section is featured in this improver level arrangement intended to introduce players of these instruments to ensemble playing. Close

Theme & Variations arr. B Flat clarinet & bass clarinet

This is an two part arrangement of Beethoven's Theme and Variation on a Swiss Air WoO 64 for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet introducing players to t Show More...

This is an two part arrangement of Beethoven's Theme and Variation on a Swiss Air WoO 64 for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet introducing players to the elements of Classical style and more particularly to Beethoven's compositional approach . The simple theme needs to be clearly articulated and played with a detached but not staccato articulation. The WoO is short for Work without Opus Number and there are many jewels found in this category of work by Beethoven. A tempo of 132 quarter note beats to the minute is recommended for the playing of the theme and variations although variations 2 & 3 need to be played at a slightly slower tempo. Close

The Good Time’s Rag arr. B Flat & bass clarinet

An arrangement for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet of this piece intended to introduce players to the musical elements that feature in ragtime. The c Show More...

An arrangement for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet of this piece intended to introduce players to the musical elements that feature in ragtime. The clarinet in Bb plays the melody whilst the bass clarinet plays the accompanying bass line. A tempo of 110 quarter notes (crotchet) beats to the minute is recommended. Players are welcome to repeat the 8 bars in performance. Both instrument parts have been transposed to sound in the key of Bb. Close

Wilson’s Rag arr. clarinet in B Flat & bass clarinet

A two part arrangement of this ragtime waltz for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet. A tempo of 110 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute is sugge Show More...

A two part arrangement of this ragtime waltz for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet. A tempo of 110 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute is suggested and is used in the realisation. The sounding key is F so that the instrument parts are appropriately transposed. Close

La Paloma arr. clarinet in B flat & bass clarinet

This improver level two part arrangement is for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet sounding in the key Bb. A tempo of of around 60 quarter note (crotche Show More...

This improver level two part arrangement is for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet sounding in the key Bb. A tempo of of around 60 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute is suggested. The melody needs to be played legato whilst the accompanying bass figuration should be played staccato or certainly in a detached manner. There are many different versions of this piece and the triplet figuration provides various options on how the music can be both notated and played. Sebastian Yradier was a Spanish born composer who despite the universal popularity of the piece died in obscurity in 1865. Based on the Cuban habanera rhythm, La Paloma (The Dove) was written after the composer visited Cuba around 1860 and became very popular world wide. Close

Soirée Polka arr. 3 B Flat clarinets & bass clarinet.

This is an arrangement for 3 clarinets in Bb with a bass clarinet. The polka is a lively characterful dance that originated from the area now known as Show More...

This is an arrangement for 3 clarinets in Bb with a bass clarinet. The polka is a lively characterful dance that originated from the area now known as the Czech Republic (Bohemia) and its popularity spread widely throughout Europe and subsequently North and South America. The dance is upbeat and celebratory in character and written in 2/4 time. Foster's Soirée Polka is an appealing and rhythmic piece suited to being played by a wide range of instruments and instrumental groups although the musical material needs to be played lightly. A tempo of 110 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute is recommended. The individual clarinet parts are also appended to the full music score. Stephen Foster (1826-1864) is known as the father of American music, responsible for writing over 200 songs many of which are still very well known today. His My Old Kentucky Home has been the official state song of Kentucky since 1928. He began composing as a teenager and attempted to live his life as a professional songwriter at a time before copyright laws protected a composers work so it was impossible for him to earn a decent living. Close

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star arr. B Flat clarinet & bassoon

A familiar melody used to introduce some of the elements of classical performance style in a two part context. This arrangement is for Bb clarinet and Show More...

A familiar melody used to introduce some of the elements of classical performance style in a two part context. This arrangement is for Bb clarinet and bassoon will help players understand about legato playing and phrasing and to assistthe letter names of the notes appear in the noteheads. Close

Twinkle,Twinkle Little Star Variations arr. B Flat & bass clarinet

A very familiar melody used to introduce some of the elements of classical performance style in melody and accompaniment playing. This intermediate le Show More...

A very familiar melody used to introduce some of the elements of classical performance style in melody and accompaniment playing. This intermediate level arrangement for clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet explores classical compositional techniques in a two part texture and features an alberti style bass, the melody played in the bass clef and changes of time signature. Close

Minuet in G minor BWV App.115 arr. clarinet in B Flat & bass clarinet

An arrangement for clarinet and bass clarinet of this minuet from the Anna Magdalena Notebook sounding in the key of G minor and like most dance music Show More...

An arrangement for clarinet and bass clarinet of this minuet from the Anna Magdalena Notebook sounding in the key of G minor and like most dance music from this era in AB or binary form. The movement has a haunting quality and is often performed with the Minuet in G BWV App.114. Like so much of the music from the collection it is a great study piece for music students and can be played by a combination of different instruments. Keep the eighth notes (quavers) as even as possible and a tempo of around 116 quarter note (crotchet) beats to the minute is suggested. Close

Prelude in C arr for flute, clarinet in B Flat & bass clarinet

An arrangement for flute, clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet of this elegant piece with flowing lines that trancribes most effectively to this instrume Show More...

An arrangement for flute, clarinet in Bb and bass clarinet of this elegant piece with flowing lines that trancribes most effectively to this instrument combination. The realisations are played at a tempo of 60 half note (minim) beats to the bar. Close