Suite for Clarinet Quartet

Clarinet Quartet

A four-movement suite with a slow-fast-fast-slow arch:
I. Andante - II. Lively 10/8 - III. Allegro - IV. Andante
It gives you a classical sense of return. The two Andantes act as bookends - reflective, song-like - enclosing two very different fast movements. Total duration if moderate: 12-15 minutes. For 3 x Bb Clarinet + Bass Clarinet in Bb, you have essentially a SATB choir:
1. Andante - The Opening Statement Character: Cantabile, introspective, perhaps slightly pastoral. Think of this as your introduction of the ensemble's blend.
2. Lively 10/8 This is the centrepiece and the novelty. 10/8 is usually grouped as 3+3+2+2 or 3+3+4, which gives it a folk-dance, almost Balkan / irregular jig feel. Mark it: Lively - with swing - 10/8 (3+3+2+2) c. dotted quarter = 120
3. Allegro Character: Traditional scherzo / finale energy. Brilliant, clean, slightly virtuosic.
4. Andante - The Return Not a repeat of Movement 1, but a reflection on it. Character: More solemn, autumnal. A kind of epilogue.Running time 13 mins 25 secs.

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