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C143: Baermann for the Alto and Bass Clarinet adapted by William E. Rhoads. Southern Music Co., 1963, SS, 46 pages. This is an adaptation of Division 3 of Baermann Method. The editor has organized the exercises by key, adjusted the upper range (to high D), added fingering suggestions, and replaced the sixth and octave interval studies with one that exercises each interval in the scale from the second to the octave. | |
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C1789: Bass Clarinet, Alto
Clarinet/Contralto Clarinet
Full Range
Fingering and Trill Chart
by Richard Williams and Jeff King. Kjos, 1999, SS, 7 pages. This is a
handy
6" x 9" fingering chart on glossy card stock for the lower harmony
clarinets with a lower range to E-flat. It gives the standard
fingerings and alternatives from low E-flat to altissimo G. It also has
trills beginning with low E-flat to C above the staff. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1756: The Bass Clarinet, A Personal History by Harry Sparnaay. Periferia Music, 2011, PB, 258 pages + CD. This is the second edition altough I don't see any obvious differences. Harry Sparnaay (1944-) is a well-known Dutch bass clarinetist. This book is both personal and comprehensive covering a wide range of the author's personal experiences and technical aspects of bass clarinet playing. There are many examples and resources for the player to draw on including multiphonic and microtonal fingerings and long list of recent repertoire. The CD has more than 100 audio examples of multiphonics and other special effects. Click on the cover image to view a .pdf file of the book's Table of Contents and another 16 sample pages. This book is not currently available from us. There is now a downloadable edition of this book available here (not from us). | |
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C633: The Bass Clarinet
(Method) by
Jean-Marc Volta. International Music Diffusion, 1996, PB, 119
pages. I am quite impressed by the French/English language method for
the bass clarinet by Jean-Marc Volta, the principal bass clarinet of
the French National Orchestra. This is an excellent source of detailed,
professional bass clarinet techniques and a wonderful resource for
fingerings. It
would be suitable for high school students and older who are coming
from the clarinet
to the bass clarinet and for current bass clarinetists who are
searching for more information on how to become proficient on their
instrument. Click on the
cover image to view
the Table of Contents. Use your browser's Back button to
return. A discounted copy is available here. |
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C773: Fingering
Chart for Bass Clarinet by
Jean-Marc Volta. International Music Diffusion, 1992, 2 pages. This is
the same fingering chart as in the Volta method book. The illustrations
are a bit small and the extended range fingerings are dated as they
show only two touches for the right thumb and most low C bass clarinets
now have three. It is primarily useful for the extensive number of
altissimo fingerings up to high C.
(Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1955: Introducing the Alto or Bass Clarinet by Himie Voxman. Rubank, 1952, SS, 44 pages. This book is similar to the Rubank intermediate methods and is subtitled "A Transfer Method for Intermediate Instructions." It is intended for students who started on the soprano clarinet and are now learning the alto or bass clarinet. It introduces many techniques and concepts such as expression markings and accents, various types of articulation, grace notes, trills, scale and chord studies. A somewhat outdated fingering chart is included. | |
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C1495: Short Synopsis on the Bass Clarinet (Petit Précis de Clarinette Basse) by Michel Pellegrino. Lemoine, 2009, 24 pages. It is tempting to call this an abbreviated version of the Volta book, but that probably does neither justice. This book which has side by side text in French and English has some introductory material, Preparatory Exercises, Register Exercises, Fingering in the Higher and Altissimo Registers, Effects (Vibrato, Flutter Tonguing or Growl, Ghost Notes, Glissandos, Ornamentation, and Slap Tonguing), and Exercises for Embouchure Suppleness. The book concludes with a Bach Courante, an example of improvisation in the style of Charlie Parker, Tango Etude No. 5 by Piazzolla, and an original etude for the study of register jumps. |
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WW257: Pit
Band for Alto Saxophone, Bass Clarinet and Piano
by William Albright. C.F. Peters, 1996, SS. (includes parts and piano
score). This work, with its unusual ensemble of three haphazard
instruments--a pick-up band--attemps to digest an evening-long musical
comedy in a few minutes (8 to be precise). The program is: Tune-up and
Introduction, Overture, Opening Number, Vamps and Screams ("Nessun
dorma"), Love Song, Waltz, alla Marcia, Fox-trot and Shimmeys, and
Finale. An advanced work with some high altissimo for both instruments,
but without the nasty key changes found in most musicals. |
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V009: To Be Sung Upon The Water by Dominick Argento. Boosey & Hawkes, 1974, SS, 40 + 8 pages. This piece is for high voice (soprano), clarinet (doubling bass clarinet), and piano is based on poems by William Wordsworth. It is in 8 movements with bass clarinet playing on four, B-flat soprano clarinet on three, and one tacit. Advanced college or professional level. ![]() |
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C2140: Prayer for Solo Bass Clarinet or Clarinet
by Lera Auerbach. Sikorski, 2018, SS, 4 pages. Lera Auerbach (1973-) is
a Russian-born American composer and pianist. This is a college level
work with a duration of about 7 minutes. It has a variety of
tempos and is written without a key signature but has many
accidentals. The lowest note is an F below the staff and
there is no altissimo. Click on
the cover image to view the first page. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C811: My Ends Are My Beginnings
Clarinet in B-flat (Bass Clarinet) Solo by Milton Babbitt. C.F.
Peters, 1990,
SS, 14 pages. Milton Babbitt (1916-) is an American composer noted for
pioneering serial and electronic music.This is a long (about 17
minutes), difficult solo work for clarinet switching to bass clarinet
for the middle section. If you search the internet you can find a
recording that can be downloaded (iTunes). (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1511: J.S. Bach Allemande and
Courante from Suite #1
for Cello transcribed
for
B-flat, E-flat Alto or Bass Clarinet by Glen A. Sargent.
Shall-u-mo Publications, 1982, 4 pages. Two movements from the popular
Bach work for cello. Better high school clarinetists and above. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1345: Contrapunctus XII (from Art of Fugue) Clarinet and Bass Clarinet Duet by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged by William Schmidt edited by Sharon Davis. Western International Music, 1996, SS, (includes score and parts). Allegro con spiritoso in 9/16. | |
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C1302: Contrapunctus XIII (from Art of Fugue) Clarinet
and Bass Clarinet Duet by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged by William
Schmidt. Western International Music, 2001, SS, (includes score and
parts). A Bach fugue nicely arranged for clarinet and bass clarinet.
The publisher rates this at grade 3, I suggest it is grade 3+. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1346: Contrapunctus XV (from Art of
Fugue) Clarinet
and Bass
Clarinet Duet by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged by William
Schmidt edited by Sharon Davis. Western International Music, 2001, SS,
(includes score and parts). Sharon Davis writes that this piece by
Bach contains a "puzzle."
(Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1347: Three Inventions (Vol. 1) Clarinet and Bass Clarinet Duet by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged by William Schmidt edited by Sharon Davis. Western International Music, 1994, SS, (includes score and parts). Includes: Invention IV (Allegro ma non troppo), Invention IX (Andantino), and Invention VIII (Allegro vivo). There are a few low Ds (with alternative note) in the bass clarinet part. | |
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C1348: Four Inventions (Vol.
2) Clarinet and Bass
Clarinet Duet by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged by William
Schmidt edited by Sharon Davis. Western International Music, 1999, SS,
(includes score and parts). Includes: Invention XIII (Allegro),
Invention II (Moderato), Invention VI (Allegretto), and Invention I
(Allegro). There are a few low Ds (with alternative note) in the bass
clarinet
part. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1349: Four Inventions (Vol. 3) Clarinet and Bass Clarinet Duet by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged by William Schmidt edited by Sharon Davis. Western International Music, 2003, SS, (includes score and parts). Includes: Invention III (Allegretto), Invention V (Allegro ma non troppo), Invention VII (Andante con moto), and Invention X (Allegro). | |
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C793: Inventions (Vol. I) Clarinet and Bass
Clarinet (or two Clarinets) Duet by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged
by J.M. Volta. International Music Diffusion, 1993, SS, 14 pages (score
format). Seven inventions BWV 772-778. Includes brief notes on how to
perform the ornaments. Generally at the upper intermediate level but
some are a bit more difficult. Click on
the cover image to view a sample page. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C794: Inventions (Vol. II) Clarinet and Bass
Clarinet (or two Clarinets) Duet by Johann Sebastian Bach arranged
by J.M. Volta. International Music Diffusion, 1992, SS, 16 pages (score
format). Eight inventions BWV 779-786. Includes brief notes on how to
perform the ornaments. Generally at the upper intermediate level but
some are a bit more difficult. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1612: Three Duos Clarinet
and Bass Clarinet by
Mauricio Murcia Bedoya. Woodwindiana, 2010, SB, 15 pages (score
format). The first two duets are for clarinet and bass clarinet while
the third is for two clarinets. The Duos are 1. Latinos, 2. Coffee
Break (a mixture of Latin jazz and a Colombian rhythm called the
pasillo--similar to a waltz--in the slow part), and 3. Tu Bambuquito
(based on the Colombian national rhythm called the Banbuco). These
duets are at the
college level but may also be performed by good adult amateurs.
(Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C648: Deepwood for Bass Clarinet and Piano by
David Bennett. Carl Fischer, 1937, SS, 7 + 3 pages. A popular bass
clarinet
solo by David Bennett who also wrote a number of frequently played
clarinet quartets. Features alternating
Lento and Vivace sections typical of much of Bennett's music.![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2167: Praeludium for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Haakon Bergh. Western International Music, 1967, SS, 13 + 4 pages. Haakon Bergh (1913-1959) was an American flutist, conductor and composer. The publisher has this rated as (US) grade 3, but I think grade 4 would be more accurate. This would be suitable for an advanced high school student or an early college level player. Click on the cover image to view a sample page from the bass clarinet part. | |
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C720: Sequenza IXc for Bass Clarinet Solo by Luciano Berio adapted by Rocco Parisi. Universal Edition, 1998, 11 pages. This is an adaptation of Sequenza IXa for bass clarinet. It is mostly in bass clef and includes some suggested fingerings. A low C instrument is needed. Advanced/professional level. | |
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C2423: Sonata Humana for Bass Clarinet and Piano
by
Derek Bermel. PeerMusic, 2002, SS, 21 + 8 pages. Derek Bermel (1967-)
is an American composer, clarinetist and conductor. This piece was
written in 1990/91 and is in three movements which are distinct in
character but share the same melodic material. They are: I. This
Beautiful Earth, II. Somewhere, and III. Progress. While the lowest
note is an E-flat the highest is altissimo B. There is flutter tonguing
and mixed meter. Here
is a video of the first two movements. The third movement is also on
YouTube. Click
on the cover image to view the first page of the second movement (which
isn't representative of the entire piece). |
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C2262: Blue Monkey
for two clarinets (or clarinet and bass clarinet) by Lauren
Bernofsky. Theodore Presser Co.,
2015, 3 pages (score format). Lauren Bernofsky (1967-) is an American
composer. This is a short (~2:30), jaunty duo, perfect for
concert/recital programming. The main riff in swing eighths is repeated
throughout, ensuring that it sticks in the mind of the audience. We
also sell versions for clarinet
and violin and clarinet and flute.
Here is
a video
of the clarinet and violin version that will give you an idea how it
goes. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1380: Suite for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Johanna Magdalena Beyer edited by Volker Hemken. Hofmeister, 2009, SS, 18 + 6 pages. Johanna Magdalena Beyer (1888-1944) was born in Germany. She immigrated to the United States in 1924 where she continued her music studies and worked as a piano teacher. She affiliated herself with the experimental music community in New York but only one of her compositions was published in her lifetime. This piece was written for Rosario Mazzeo in 1937. It is in three movements: I. Rubato, II. Lento, and III. Allegretto. The first two movements are not difficult (even though the first is in 5/4). The third movement in 12/8 and 5 sharps is a bit more challenging. Early college level. | |
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C1543: Largo and Allegro for
Bass
Clarinet and Piano by Pietro Boni transcribed by Himie
Voxman.
Rubank, 1949, 5 + 2 pages. Pietro Gaetano Boni (ca.1686-1741) was an
Italian composer. This two movement piece at the intermediate (easier
high school) level is frequently used for solo and ensemble festivals.
It is almost entirely in the lower register. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1047: Fantaisie Brillante sur Carmen by François Borne transcribed for bass clarinet and piano by Rocco Parisi. Billaudot, 2002, SS, 23 + 10 pages. A challenging transcription of this work originally for flute and piano. A low E-flat instrument is all that is needed. Much of this piece is in the clarion and altissimo. | |
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C1783: 6 Sonatas for Two Bass Clarinets by
Joseph Bodin de Boismortier transcribed for bass clarinet duet by Pedro
Rubio. Bassus Ediciones, 2011, SS, 36 pages (score format). Joseph
Bodin de Boismortier (1689-1755) was a prolific French composer who
became wealthy publishing his own music. These sonatas, all in four
movements,
were originally for two bassoons, violas da gamba, or cellos. There are
notes in the extended range with alternates given. These duets can also
be played by any two like members of the clarinet family. Upper
intermediate level. Click on
the cover image to view the first page. |
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C599: Phantasy Quintet Op.
93 for bass clarinet and string
quartet by
York Bowen. Emerson Edition, 1954. Bowen (1884-1961) was an English
composer and professor of piano at the Royal Academy of Music. This
piece was written sometime between 1933 and 1936 as an entry in a
competition. It is in three movements: Allegro moderato (with many
tempo changes); Allegro con spirito, non troppo; and Allegro moderato
ma piu tranquillo. Low E is the lowest bass clarinet note.
Includes a score and parts. This is an advanced college or professional
work. Duration about 14 minutes.![]() ![]() |
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C845: Ballade for Bass Clarinet and Piano by
Eugene Bozza. Southern
Music Co., 1939, SS, 6 + 2 pages. One of the older bass clarinet solos
in the
repertoire. A popular one movement sectional piece that is, at turns,
lyrical and rhythmic. ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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WW069: Trio in D minor for
Oboe (Clarinet), Bassoon (Viola/Bass Clarinet/Basset Horn) and Piano
by Alexander Brent-Smith. Rosewood, 2003, (includes piano score and all
parts). Alexander Brent-Smith (1889-1950) was a British composer,
author, and teacher. This work was first performed in 1943. It is in
three movements I. Allegro Moderato, II. Andante, and III. Allegretto.
It should be playable by those at the early college level (and adult
amateurs). |
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C1412: Elegy Bass Clarinet and Piano by Dirk
Brossé. Metropolis Music,
2000, SS, 6 + 2 pages. Dirk Brossé (1960-) is a Belgian composer,
music educator, and conductor. While this piece is not technically
difficult, the many tempo changes probably make it more suitable for
(early) college level performers. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2277: La Soledad for Bass Clarinet and Piano by
Dirk
Brossé. Metropolis Music,
2005, SS, 6 + 4 pages. This piece has a number of short sections in
differing tempos. That and the key signature (5 flats) make it most
suitable for
performers who are at least at the early college level. Click here to listen
to Jan Guns (the dedicatee) play this piece. Click on the cover
image to view the first three pages of the score. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2168: Prelude
& Fughetta Bass Clarinet and Piano by
Rayner Brown. Western International
Music, 1964, SS 12 + 4 pages. Rayner Brown (1912-1999) was an American
organist and composer. This two movement piece is suitable for an early
high school bass clarinetist. The piano part is relatively easy as
well. It is on the contest list for a number of states and is
rated at (US) grade 3 by the publisher. Duration of 5 minutes.
(Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2378: Kol Nidrei Op. 47 arranged for Bass Clarinet Solo and Clarinet Choir by Max Burch arranged by Malcolm Katzen. Cimarron Music Press, 2013, includes score and all parts. The Kol Nidrei begins the evening service at the start of Yom Kippur. In the 16th century, a Cantor in Germany composed a melody for this prayer which Bruch used as the basis for his Adagio on Hebrew Melodies for Violoncello and Orchestra. This arrangement is for solo bass clarinet and a clarinet choir of E-flat clarinet, 5 B-flat clarinets, alto clarinet, bass clarinet and contrabass (in B-flat) clarinet. It can probably be performed with a minimum choir of 5 B-flat clarinets and bass clarinet. The solo part utilizes the normal range of the bass clarinet from low E, but some optional 8vb at the end would take it into the extended range. Click the cover image to view the first page of the score. | |
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C2170: Suite Op. 37a
for Bass Clarinet or Clarinet Solo by
Adolf Busch. Amadeus Verlag, 1980, SS, 9 pages. Adolf Busch
(1891-1952) was a German-born violinist and composer. Although he was
not Jewish, he left Germany in 1927 and later settled in the United
States. This four movement solo work was written in 1926. Each of the
movements is quite different in character. They are: I. Andante
tranquillo, II. Adagio, III. Scherzo, and IV. Vivace. It is college
level on the clarinet and advanced college level on the bass clarinet. Click the
cover image to view the last page of the music.
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C1493: Steep Steps
for solo bass clarinet by Elliott Carter. Boosey &
Hawkes,
2001, 3 pages. The composer wrote: "Steep Steps was written for the
greatly admired clarinetist and friend, Virgil Blackwell, during the
summer of 2001. Its title comes from the fact that, unlike the other
woodwind instruments, the clarinet overblows at the twelfth, a large
interval that forms the basis of much of this composition." An advanced
work that uses the extended range in a few spots. Here is recording on YouTube.![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C828: Excursions, Variations on a
theme of Paganini for Bass Clarinet
by Keith Ramon Cole. Emerson Edition, 1978, SS, 6 pages. A theme from
Paganini and 15 variations in a variety of styles. Some altissimo but
only two notes in the lower extended range. College level.![]() ![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1434: 5 Huapangos for Clarinet and Bass Clarinet by Mike Curtis. Advance Music, 2005, SS. 10 pages (score format). Dedicated to Carol Robe, these five original dances in the huapango style will be enjoyed by players (advanced high school, early college, adult amateurs) and listeners alike. They are: 1. Santa Cruz, 2. Las Islitas, 3. Miramar, 4. Ofelia, and 5. El Llano. | |
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C1725: 8 More Original Jazz Duos for Clarinet and Bass Clarinet by Mike Curtis. MSS Publishing, 1993, SB, 31 pages (score format). These duets are in a variety of styles including swing, Latin, blues, etc. There are a few notes in the bass clarinet's extended range, but they won't be a problem for those that don't own one. Upper intermediate level and up. | |
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C2024: Andante and Allegro for Bass
Clarinet and Piano by Yvonne Desportes. Southern Music Co.,
1939, SS, 8 + 2 pages. Yvonne Desportes (1907-1993) was a French writer
and
composer. She composed over five hundred works, including opera,
symphonies, ballets, concertos, chamber music, and vocal and solo
instrumental music. Above the title of this music is printed, "For the
National School Music Competition - Festivals." It begins with an
Andante espressivo section which is immediately followed by the
Allegro. Suitable for better high school
bass clarinetists. Here is a
video. Click
on
the cover
image to view the score at the start of the Allegro. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1413: Romanze Bass
Clarinet and Piano by Friedrich Diethe. Metropolis Music,
1999,
SS, 6 + 2 pages. Begins with an Andante moderato (quasi Recit.) section
which is followed by the Adagio Romanze in 3/4 time. Better high school
bass clarinets should be able to handle this piece which would be good
for festival use. (I also found it on a UK repertoire listed as their
grade 6). ![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1740: Masterworks Solos 17th and 18th Centuries arranged for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Ronald C. Dishinger. Medici Music Press, 2002, SS, 15 + 6 pages. Six compositions: Jeremiah Clarke Ayre (Song), John Barrett St. Catherine's Riguadon, Jean P. Rameau Tambourin from Pieces de Clavcin, Jean B. Lully Courante, George F. Handel Gavotte, and Fredrich W. Marpurg La Voltigeuse from Three Piano Pieces. The publisher rates this at (US) Grade 2-3. Almost entirely in the lower register. | |
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C2051: Flowers
of St. Francis (Five Scenes for Solo Bass Clarinet) by Daniel
Dorff. Theodore Presser Co., 2013, SS, 10 pages. Inspired by a
commissioned premiere at
the International Clarinet Association's 2013 ClarinetFest in Assisi,
Italy, and by his penchant for creating musical works depicting nature,
composer and bass clarinetist Daniel Dorff has created a suite of five
picturesque scenes of St. Francis of Assisi's commune with nature. Each
movement is a dialog between St. Francis (represented by pure chantlike
melody) and an element of nature (flowers, birds, an angry wolf, fish,
starry skies), offering an opportunity to dramatically showcase the
wide range of textures and contrasts available from the bass clarinet.
Movements: I. The Flowers, Celebrated by St. Francis; II. St. Francis
Preaching to the Birds; III. St. Francis Pacifying the Wolf; IV. St.
Francis Preaching to the Fish; and V. The Starry Skies, Celebrated by
St. Francis. For advanced performers. A low C instrument is required.
The duration is about 14 minutes. Here
is a performance of this piece (which starts at about 2:53). Click on
the cover image to view a significant portion of the piece. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2154: In a Deep Funk
Dance Set for solo Bass Clarinet
by Daniel Dorff. Theodore Presser Co., 1997/2014, SS, 8 pages. Already
a
long-standing rite of passage in the contrabassoon repertoire, Dorff
has revisited and adapted In A Deep Funk for solo bass clarinet (or
contralto or contrabass clarinet), for Barbara Haney to premiere at the
2014 ICA ClarinetFest. In the spirit of Bach cello suites, Dorff
develops characteristic dance rhythms to drive each movement. The
subtitles tell it all: Hustle Misterioso, Twist Variations, Bear Hug (a
slow 12/8 ballad), and Funk Scherzo. A low C instrument is required for
this piece. For advanced performers with a duration of about 14
mintues. Click
on the cover image to view selected pages from the score.
(Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1040: Voltage Suite for Solo Bass Clarinet
by Pierre Max Dubois. Billaudot, 1980, SS, 9 pages. Dedicated to
Jean-Marc Volta. This is a relatively advanced work in five movements:
II. Sarabande, II. Tango, III. Tambourin, IV. Chant, and V. Caprice.
The overall duration is about 12 minutes. (The lowest note is a low
E-flat.)
(Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1548: Two Rags for B-flat
Bass Clarinet and Piano
by Brian Dykstra. InternationalOpus, 1998, SS, 14 + 4 pages. Two
original rags. The Curly Maple Rag is mostly at a tempo of Moderato
(mm=108) and is to be played in a swing style. The Lancashire Rag is in
cut time marked Lively (mm=96-108). Early college level.![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1736: Sonata in G minor
for
Bass Clarinet and Piano by Henry Eccles transcribed by
Norman A.
Goldberg. Belwin Mills/Alfred, 1942, SS, 8 + 3 pages. Henry Eccles
(1670-1742) was an
English musician and composer. This work was originally for the violin
but has been transcribed for many instruments. It begins with an
introductory movement (to be played slowly), then Corrente-Allego con
spirito, Adagio, and concludes with Vivace. The edition has a range
from low E to C above the staff. The publisher rates it as a (US) grade
4. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C629: Vier Lyrische Stücke (Four
Lyrical Pieces)
Op. 35d for
Bass Clarinet (or Clarinet) and Piano by
Heimo Erbse.
Doblinger, 1981, SS, 19 + 5 pages. Erbse (1924-2005) was born and
studied (flute, conducting, opera directing) in Germany, but moved to
Austria in 1957. The four pieces are not named: I. Andantino (6/8), II.
Allegretto (3/4), III. Lento (2/4), and IV. Allegro (various meters).
College level. |
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C1414: Zebus Bass
Clarinet and Piano by
Johan Favoreel. Metropolis Music, 1997, SS, 5 + 2 pages. Johan Favoreel
(1957-) is Belgian composer, arranger and music producer. The composer
wrote, "Imagine the ancient heavy-weight Greek god 'Zebus' enjoying
life sitting in the sun while eating and drinking wine. The idea of
taking part in a hunting party excites him, but because he is so tired
everything stays calm and nice. Life continues as it was." Adagio
tempo. An early college level piece which ranges into the altissimo and
offers ossia for the most challenging passage. Duration about 4:45. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2161: Bass Clarinet
and Percussion for Bass
Clarinet and Percussion (2 players) by
Morten Feldman. Universal Edition, 1981, SB, 10 pages (large format
performing score). The percussion parts require one player on cymbals
(3
suspended), timpani, xylophone, and vibraphone; and the second player
on gongs (3), marimba, xylophone, vibraphone, and
timpani. While not technically difficult aside from the frequent meter
changes there are some complications in the bass clarinet part that
make this a piece for advanced performers as explained by
David Cook
below. "The bass clarinet part is 'in C' and uses the German notation system; passages written in bass clef are played a M2 (whole step) higher than printed, while passages in treble clef are played a M9 (whole step and an octave) higher than printed. . . . There are even some professional recordings that do not get this right. [I asked him about the marking I associate with harmonics in string writing.] You are correct with regards to the little circles above some pitches in the treble clef. Those notes, normally played at concert pitch with fifth partial fingerings, would instead be played with third-partial fingerings. A more liberal approach would allow anything other than a fifth-partial fingering; I used a few seventh-partial fingerings for pitch and response (subject to differ depending on instruments). I feel anything other than the 'standard' fingering would work." Here is a performance by David Cook. |
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C810: Time
and Motion Study I
Bass Clarinet Solo by Brian Ferneyhough.
C.F. Peters, 1977, SB, 6 double size pages. Brian Ferneyhough (1943-)
is an English composer who has lived in California since 1987. He is
typically considered to be the central figure of the New Complexity
movement in music. The piece was written in the period 1971-77 and is
dedicated to Harry Sparnaay. It is a very advanced work with a duration
of 9 minutes. It includes a page explaining the notation. Here
is a
YouTube video which has a performance and shows the score. Click on
the cover
image to view the notes provided by the composer and the publisher. |
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WW270: Trionometry
for Flute, Clarinet/Bass Clarinet and Piano by Richard
Festinger.
C.F. Peters, 1996, SS, includes parts and piano score. Richard
Festinger (1948-) studied composition at the University of California
in Berkeley with Andrew Imbrie. Before turning to composing, he led his
own groups as a jazz performer. He has taught at the University of
California in Berkeley and Davis, Dartmouth College, and since 1990 at
San Francisco State University. Written in 1996. In three movements: I.
A la breve/Vivace, II. Andantino, and III. Allegro. An advanced work
with a duration of about 15 minutes. The first and last movements are
for bass clarinet with some notes in the extended range. "Richard Festinger's Trionometry was simply breathtaking... This technically demanding tour de force begins with a delicate exposition which... eventually explodes into a contrapuntal argument of grandiose proportions... like a multi-stage rocket that - ignoring gravity - traverses the earth's atmosphere. Bravo!" - Twentieth Century Music |
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C627: Ballade Op. 23 for
Bass Clarinet (or Clarinet) and Piano by
Wolfgang Gabriel. Doblinger, 1980, SS, 22 + 12 pages. The work by
Austrian composer and
conductor Wolfgang Gabriel (1930-) was completed in 1974 for Josef
Horák, bass clarinet, and Emma Kovarnová, piano. It is in
three movements: I. Praeludium (Allegro Molto), II. Carmen (Lento), and
III. Hymnus. College level. |
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C852: Adagio and Allegro transcribed for Bass
Clarinet and Piano by
Johann Ernst Galliard transcribed by Lyle Merriman. Southern Music,
1966, 7 + 2 pages. Johann Ernst Galliard (1687-1749) was a German
composer who also played the oboe (notably for Handel in England). The
Adagio is from his Sonata No. III and the Allegro from
his Sonata No. V (presumably for bassoon, originally). The publisher
rates this as (US) grade 3 (of 6). Suggested for high school festival
use. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C907: Sonate for Bass
Clarinet (Solo) by Harald Genzmer. C.F. Peters,
1990, SS, 9
pages. An advanced work for solo bass clarinet. An extended range
instrument is preferred as this piece includes several low Ds. In three
movements: I. Moderato, II. Presto (sempre marcato), and III.
Intermezzo (Tranquillo). Duration is about 10:30. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1686: Pastorale and Bourrée for Bass
Clarinet and Piano by Edward German transcribed by Himie
Voxman. Rubank, 1962, SS, 11 + 3 pages. A popular bass clarinet work
for solo
and ensemble festivals. The Pastorale is marked Andantino/Piu
moto and the Bourree is Allegretto. Mostly in
the lower register, this is probably most suitable for students with
about 3 years playing experience. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1954: Voix Instrumentalisée for Bass Clarinet (Solo) by Vinko Globokar. C.F. Peters, 1975, 5 pages. Vinko Globokar (1934-) is a French avant-garde composer and trombonist of Slovenian descent. His work is noted for its use of unconventional and extended techniques. In Voix Instrumentalisée, Globokar asks the bass clarinet player to learn a couple of new techniques to play the instrument. The mouthpiece is removed and not used at all. Instead, the performer has to sing, speak and blow into the bass clarinet while changing the fingering and adding special effects with the voice and the keyclick sounds. Here is a web site with an explanation and a track that can be downloaded. There are at least two performances on YouTube. | |
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V029: Neue
Liebe, Neues Leben for Soprano Voice and Bass
Clarinet. Music by Hans Martin Gräbner on a text of Johann
Wolfgang von
Goethe. Hofmeister, 1998, SS, 8 pages in score format. There are three
pieces.
The titles are: Nähe des Geliebten (Nearness of the
Beloved One); Neue Liebe, neues Leben (New Love, New Life); and An den
Schlaf (To
Sleep). Early college level. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2172: Spotlights on the Bass Clarinet (Bassclarinet) for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Jan Haderman. De Haske, 1992, 25 + 9 pages. Jan Haderman (1952-) is a Belgian composer best known for his works for winds. This three movement piece requires a low C bass clarinet. It was the first piece featured in William Hayter's article Bass Clarinet Solos for Students (The Clarinet, Vol. 41, No. 4, September 2014). Each movement is sectional or has changes in tempo. The first two movements are reminiscent of the fast and slow movements of classical and romantic concertos. The third movement includes a jazz waltz, a cadenza, a blues, and another waltz. Hayter suggests a single movement be chosen for study by a high school student but I believe it will take a college level performer to prepare the entire work for performance in a reasonable amount of time. There is a concert band accompaniment we can order. Here is a video of the first movement from YouTube with piano and an ad lib drummer. There are several other videos online, as well. Click of the cover image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part. | |
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C626: Monologue 13,
Configurations for Bass Clarinet by Eugene
Hartzell.
Doblinger, 1983, SS, 4 pages. Eugene Hartzell
(1932-2000) was born and studied in the United States (through a
MM at Yale) but spent most of the rest of his life in Austria. He
studied with Hans Erich Apostel, a pupil of Arnold
Schönberg and
Alban Berg. Written in 1980, this piece for solo bass clarinet
has "with Harry Sparnaay in mind" printed above the title. An advanced
piece, much of it without bar
lines and with lots of altissimo. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1476: (T)raum-Ze(n)it, Dialog for 2 Bass Clarinets by David Philip Hefti. Kunzelmann, 2008, SS, 4 pages (two copies in score format). (T)raum-Ze(n)it was composed in 2008 on a commission from the Stump-Linshalm Duo, and is dedicated to Petra Stump and Heinz-Peter Linshalm. "Space and time ('Raum' and 'Zeit') surely belong amongst the most often-discussed concepts of all. In his Transcendental Aesthetics, Immanuel Kant explains that space and time are prerequisites of the sensory imagination. In Relativity Theory, 'space-time' means the combination of the three spatial dimensions together with time as the fourth coordinate, in order to create a four-dimensional space. And in our dreams (singular: 'Traum'), time and space melt to form ambiguous, often surreal images..." An advanced piece using contemporary techniques such microtonality, multiphonics (fingerings given), articulations, glissando, tremolo, etc. Duration about 3 minutes. | |
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C1456: Sonate for Bass
Clarinet (or Violoncello) and Piano Op. 23 by Stefan Heucke.
Schott, 2005, SS, 31 + 9 pages (includes both bass clarinet and cello
parts). Stefan Heucke (1959-) is a German composer of contemporary
music. This piece is dedicated to Henri Bok who gave the first
performance in 1996. This is a challenging piece which calls for a
range from the high altissimo to the bottom of a low C instrument, one
repeated multiphonic, and some other extended techniques. In three
movements: I. Ballade, II. Variationen, and III. Elegie. Duration about
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C2282: Duo de Concert Clarinet and Bass Clarinet with Piano by Paul Jeanjean. International Music Diffusion, 2014, SS, 12 + 4 + 4 pages. This work was first published in 1904 but was out of print for many years. While this work has two main sections it has many tempo change. Click on the cover image to view a sample page from the score. | |
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C1811: Rrrrrrr ... Five Jazz Pieces for
Clarinet (Bass Clarinet, Alto Saxophone) Violin and Piano by
Mauricio Kagel. C.F. Peters, 1992, SS, includes parts and piano score.
Mauricio Kagel (1931-2008) was born in Argentina into a Russian-Jewish
family. He moved to Germany in 1957. This was written in 1981/82.
Rrrrrrr ... consists of 41 pieces (all beginning with the letter "R").
This is the cycle of 5 jazz pieces: 1. Rackett, very fast, inspired by
the Baroque instrument of that name (BsCl and Pn); 2. Rrrrrrr -
Bop, A slow swing (Cl, Vn and Pn); 3. Reeds, fast, (ASx
&
Pn); 4. Rrrrrrr: Old/New Freely (Vn or Cl); 5. Riff, slow rubato (BsCl,
Vn & Pn). A low C bass clarinet is called for. College level
with a
duration of about 8:20. |
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C1722: Schattenklänge, Three Pieces
for
Bass Clarinet
by
Mauricio Kagel. Henry Litolff's Verlag/C.F. Peters, 1997, SS, 13 pages.
The title of this piece can be literally translated as "Shade sounds"
although "Shadow sounds" may be closer to the intended meaning. Kagel
was interested in the theatrical side of music performance and this
piece is an example. While
it
may be performed in a normal manner, the composer has provided
directions for performing it behind a screen with five spotlights which
produce various shadow effects on the screen as the performer moves
around. The music includes complete instructions and some photos of the
results. There is more information on the performance of this piece in
Harry Sparnaay's book, The Bass Clarinet.
An advanced work requiring an extended range instrument with a duration
of
11 minutes. |
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C911: Improvisation on 'Lines Where
Beauty
Lingers'
for Solo Bass
Clarinet by M. William Karlins.
Tritone Press, 2004, SS, 4 pages. This piece by American composer
Karlins (1932-) is based on the jazz composition Lines Where Beauty Lingers
by Ron
Thomas. It takes the form of a theme and variations, which in this
case, are called improvisations. The composer has provided performance
notes. An advanced work that includes some notes in the extended lower
range and a small amount of altissimo. Duration about 8 minutes.![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2125: Sabre
Dance (Danse du
Sabre) by Aram Khatchatourian arranged for
clarinet quartet by
Florent Héau. Billaudot, 2014, SS,
includes parts and score. For clarinet quartet (E-flat, B-flat and 2
bass clarinets). Sabre Dance might
be Khatchaturian most popular piece. It is from the ballet Gayaneh, Act
IV. Duration is about 2:30. This piece is
rated as an 8 on the publisher's 9 point difficulty scale, but I don't
believe it is that difficult. The lowest bass clarinet note is an E. Normally we don't list
clarinet
quartets on this page but since this arrangement uses two bass
clarinets it is worth a special listing. Click on
the cover
image to view the first page of the score. |
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C2370: Autumn Sonata Op. 226 Bass Clarinet and Piano by Michael Kibbe. Woodwindiana, 2014, SB/SS, 26 + 8 pages. Michael Kibbe is a California based woodwind performer and composer. The four contrasting movements are: I. Allegro molto, II. Lento, con rubato, III. Scherzo, and IV. Finale (Grandioso). There is one low D and one low C (the last note of the piece) with alternatives provided. This is a college level piece (rated at US grade 5) with a duration of 11:40. Click on the cover image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part. | |
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C1975: Fantasy Sonata Op. 208 Bass Clarinet and Piano by Michael Kibbe. Woodwindiana, 2012, SB/SS, 23 + 8 pages. This is a sectional, college level piece with a duration of 10:22. There is only one note in the piece below E-flat. Here is a video of the premier. | |
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C1610: Night Music Op. 175
Bass Clarinet and Piano by Michael Kibbe. Woodwindiana, 2010,
SS,
12 + 4 pages. The composer
wrote, "I had no idea that my bass clarinet Sonata OP. 40 would be so
popular with performers. In response, I wrote the Night Music Op. 175
which is in a single movement and quotes (in a somewhat veiled manner)
other more famous nocturnes. Let the listener discover what they are!"
This five section (US) grade 5 mood piece, ranges from calm to
energetic in a variety of textures and rhythmic interplay with the
piano. At 5 minutes in length and with its conservative/contemporary
harmonies, it can add contrast to a bass clarinet recital. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1158: Pink Flamingos Tango
for Clarinet and Bass
Clarinet (or
Bassoon)
by Michael Kibbe. Michael Kibbe, 2006, (includes all parts).
Originally written for wind quintet, the composer has adapted this
piece for two players. At an Allegro sensuoso tempo, this should be
playable by good high school/adult amateur performers and beyond. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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WW142: Sonata Op. 40 for
Bass Clarinet (or
Bassoon) and
Piano by
Michael Kibbe. Stretto Music, SB, 24 + 7 pages. This piece was composed
in 1977-78 (and revised in 2005) and is in a very straight forward
Neoclassical style in three contrasting movements with an emphasis on
clarity of form and of melodic ideas. It was inspired by the numerous
instrumental sonatas of Hindemith. The movements are: I.
Allegro deciso, II. Andante tranquillo, and III. Allegro vivo. College
level with a duration of about 9:30. Here is an
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C2165: Fantasiestücke Op. 108 for Bass Clarinet or Clarinet and Piano by Bernhard Krol. Boosey & Hawkes, 1991, SS, 13 + 4 pages. Bernhard Krol (1920-2013) was a German composer and horn player. His music is tonal, looking back towards composers such as Max Reger or Paul Hindemith. This piece is in two movements Arietta (Andante) and Scherzo (Agitato). There are two optional low Ds. College level for the bass clarinet and a bit easier on a soprano clarinet. Click on the cover image to view the last part of the Arietta and the first part of the Scherzo on the solo part. | |
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C2338: Evasion for Clarinet or Bass Clarinet and Piano by Francis Laperteaux. Andel, SS, 8 + 4 pages. Francis Laperteaux is a Belgian composer and trombonist. This work has two parts Nocturne (Lento) and Diurne (Day, Allegretto ma non troppo). The second movement has some mixed meter: 2/4, 5/8, 1/4, 3/8, etc. Early college level. Click on the cover image to view the first page of Diurne. | |
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C2391: Rio De Los Sueños (River of Dreams) for
Bass Clarinet (or Tenor Saxophone) and Piano by
Mike Lewis. LudwigMasters Publications, 2015, SS, 4 + 1 pages.
Mike Lewis (1938-) has been a freelance arranger/composer for many
years. Starting with the Jackie Gleason TV Variety Show as a staff
arranger, he became heavily involved in the pop music field, arranging
hit records for some of the top pop artists. This is a light "Latin"
ballad performed at a slow tempo. While not difficult it uses the full
range of the bass clarinet to altissimo E. Click on the cover
image to view the first page of the score. Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1376: Prozession for Bass
Clarinet and
Organ by
Norbert Linke. Hofmeister, 1999, SS, 9 + 2 pages. Norbert Linke
(1933-1977) is a German composer and musicologist. We are
somewhat puzzled by this piece. It has been published for a number of
instruments in the lower range (trombone, bassoon, horn, etc.). It is
not difficult (the organ part as well) and does not appear to be church
music. We await reports. What looks like two multiphonics are probably
double stops from the cello version. Alternate
notes are provided. Click on
the cover image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part. Except other items with free shipping.) |
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WW237: Trio for Clarinet (Violin), Bassoon (Viola/Bass Clarinet/Basset Horn) and Piano by Charles Harford Lloyd. Rosewood Publications, 1997, SB, (includes piano score and all parts). Charles Harford Lloyd (1864-1919) was a celebrated organist and music professor who also did some composing. Although most successful as a choral composer, he wrote a few other works including this one and a Duo Concertante for clarinet and piano. In three movements: I. Allegro con brio, II Andante espressivo, and III. Allegro moderato. (Early) college level. A low C bass clarinet would be desirable but is not required. | |
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C2480: Music in Pastel Shades (Liegebeest) for
Bass Clarinet and Piano by Tars Lootens. Golden River Music, SS, 3
+ 1 pages. Tars Lootens (1952-) is a Belgian composer and pianist. This
is a relatively easy piece although the tempo is mm=124-132 and it has
quite a bit of simple syncopation. Suitable for second or third year
students depending on starting age. Click on the cover
image to view a
portion of the score. Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1886: Chips Off the Ol'Block for Solo Bass
Clarinet by Eric
P. Mandat. Cirrus Music, 1999, SB, 9 pages (plus notes). The composer
wrote, "The premise behind this piece is quite simple: a little motive
is introduced and begins to develop, but suddenly the development is
either interrupted by or morphs into a new motive. After all of the
motives have had their solo moments, they begin to coalesce into one
'super motive,' at first retaining their original rhythmic and dynamic
characteristics, but eventually dissolving in to a fiery cauldron of
reckless abandon." This is an advanced piece using fractional tones
(fingering given), some multiphonics produced by overblowing, and
flutter tonguing. A low C bass clarinet is needed.![]() |
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C1860: Sonata
in A Minor for Bass Clarinet or Contrabass Clarinet
in B-flat and Piano
by Benedetto Marcello transcribed and
edited by
David L. Hite. Southern Music Co., 1964, SS, 6 + 2 pages. Benedetto
Marcello (1686-1739) was an Italian
composer, writer, lawyer, magistrate, and teacher. This piece was
originally for cello but has been transcribed for many lower range
instruments. In three movements:
I. Adagio/Allegro, II. Largo, and III. Allegro. There are a couple of
low Ds in the first movement with the note up an octave also given. The
editor has provided suggested tempo markings and some performance
notes. Publisher's (US) grade 3 (certainly on the upper end) with a
duration of 5:30. Click here to see a
performance on bass clarinet.
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C2223: For Hope for Bass Clarinet and Piano by
Catherine
McMichael (solo part edited by William King). Alry Publications,
2012, SS, 14 + 5 pages. Catherine McMichael (1954-)
is an American pianist, arranger, teacher and composer. This is
a one movement sectional piece. It is divided into
three main sections: driving and aggressive in a minor tonality with
changing meters, then melodic and soaring in a sweeping 6/4 meter, and
a return to the fast first themes, with emphasis on major tonality. The
pulse in the outer sections is strong and focused, while the rhythmic
writing in the middle section is intended to convey a sense of
improvisation and freedom. The tempo and mixed meter make this a
college level piece. There is one optional note in the extended range.
A great new, original composition for the growing bass clarinet
repertoire. Click
on the cover image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part.
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C1611: Introduction and
Joropo
Solo Bass Clarinet by Jorge Montilla. Woodwindiana, 2010, SS,
3
pages. This piece
was originally written for bassoonist Jeffrey Lyman at Arizona State
University. The Joropo is a musical style resembling the waltz, having
both African and European influences. It is the fundamental musical
genre which identifies Venezuelans and it has been that country's
national dance since 1882. College level and requires a low C bass
clarinet. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C628: Sonatine for Bass
Clarinet or Clarinet and
Piano by
Manfred J. M. Nedbal. Doblinger, 1971, SS, 14 + 4 pages. Nedbal
(1902-1977) was an Austrian cellist. music critic, and composer. This
work was also written for Josef Horák, bass clarinet, and Emma
Kovarnová, piano. It is in
three movements: I. Allegro deciso, II. Adagio, and
III. Presto. Early college level. |
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C2228: Four Osinatos for Solo Bass Clarinet by Michael Nyman. Chester Music, 2013, SS, 14 pages. This is an advanced work for bass clarinet with very high altissimo and flutter tonging and has a few notes in the extended range. The four movements, all of which are different in character, are: 1. Bird Song List, 2. Drawing II: days 4 and 5, 3. Mouth to Mouth, and 4. Melody Lists. The duration is 20+ minutes. Click on the cover image to view a sample page from the score. | |
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V065: Manhatta for Soprano Voice and Bass Clarinet by Michael Nyman with text from Mannahatta by Walt Whitman. Chester Music, 2013, SS, 12 + 5 pages (vocal score and bass clarinet part). Eos commissioned Nyman to write a score for the 10-minute silent film Manhatta, a Jazz Age piece lacing together images of Manhattan with the projected words of Walt Whitman. The composer has reworked this piece in a version for soprano vocalist (range from middle C to A above the staff) and bass clarinet. A low C bass is needed but the full range of the instrument is used up to altissimo F-sharp. Much mixed meter of the 3/4, 4/4, 5/4, 3/2, etc. variety. A real endurance test for the bass clarinetist who play throughout the 7:30 piece. Click on the cover image to view the first page of the score. | |
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C1676: Un Seul for (Solo)
Clarinet or Bass Clarinet by Kalmen Opperman. Carl Fischer,
2000, 2 pages. This piece was written in 1998 and is dedicated to
Richard Stoltzman. It is marked Adagio (freely) and has a cadenza near
the end. Most of this piece is relatively easy because of the slow
tempo, however the cadenza is marked rapido, is noted in 32nd notes and
ends on an altissimo A. Free
Media Mail shipping on this
music to US, IF ordered with another item.
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C1711: Spiegel im Spiegel for Clarinet (or Bass
Clarinet)
and Piano by Arvo Pärt. Universal Edition, 1978, SS
8 + 1 pages (includes part for either B-flat or C clarinet). This piece
was
written by Estonian composer Arvo Pärt in 1978, originally for
violin and piano. The piece is in the tintinnabular style created by
Pärt in which the "tintinnabular voice" (the piano) arpeggiates
the tonic triad and the second voice (clarinet) moves diatonically in
stepwise motion. The title means mirror in the mirror. The piece is
musically minimal, yet produces a serene tranquility. The clarinet part
is very easy (it looks like an ensemble warm up exercise) and the main
issue in the piano part is concentration. It is about ten minutes long.
Here
is
a
version with clarinet on YouTube and another
with a
slower tempo. Both of these have dynamics (there aren't any in the
music).
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C1085: Romanza
for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Bartolomé Pérez Casas edited by
Pedro
Rubio. Bassus Ediciones Musicales, 2007, SS, 4 + 1 pages. Bartolomé
Pérez Casas
(1873-1956) was the conductor of the Philharmonic
Orchestra of Madrid as well as a composer, educator, and clarinetist.
Originally for cello this short piece was written in 1917. In 3/4 time
and Andantino tempo, it opens and closes with lyrical cantabile
sections
which frame the middle section of arpeggio figures. Alternatives are
provided for the four measures that dip into the extended range. The
publisher has found some more copies of this piece so we have back in
stock at least for now.![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C791: Solipse I for Bass Clarinet and Piano
by Jean-Louis Petit. International Music Diffusion, 2000, SS, 20 + 7
pages. Jean-Louis Petit (1937-) is a French conductor and composer
whose teachers included Olivier Messiaen and Pierre Boulez. Dedicated
to Rocco Parisi. This is an advanced contemporary piece in three
movements (presumably fast/slow/fast) although only the middle movement
has tempo markings (Adagio non troppo). The duration is 13:25. |
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C2166: Scherzo Barbaro for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Boris Pillin. Western International Music, 1976, SS, 15 + 6 pages. So far all I have found on the composer is that he was born in 1940. This piece alternates between Andante and Allegro sections. While both sections have mixed meter, in the Allegro sections it is of the 2/4, 3/8, 5/8 variety. College level. One low D with an alternative given. In the article "Bass Clarinet Solos for Students" by William Hayter (Clarinet, Vol. 41, No. 4) the author writes: "A number of contrasting sections gives this piece appeal for a student advanced enough to approach various technical challenges across changes of tempo and meter." Click on the cover image to view the first page of bass clarinet part. | |
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C1615: Figarello's Morningsong
Clarinet Duet for B-flat Soprano and Bass Clarinet by
Alfred Prinz. Woodwindiana, 2008, SS, 7 pages (score
format). This 3:30 minute spoof of music from the Marriage of Figaro
presents several of the well-known melodies in a funny and surprising
juxtaposition. Guaranteed to make your audience chuckle. College level. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C439: Meeting Duo for
B-flat Clarinet and Bass
Clarinet by
Alfred Prinz. Woodwindiana, 1999, SS, 11 pages (score
format). Written for and premiered by Ricardo Morales and Howard Klug,
this three-movement, highly-contrasting duet is an equal challenge for
both players. A low C bass clarinet is needed. A very nice piece in
three movements. About 7 minutes. Click here
to listed to an audio recording which starts at the Vivace leggiero in
the first movement.. Click on the
cover image to view the second page.
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C438: Nachtstück (Night Piece)
for
Bass
Clarinet and Piano
by Alfred Prinz. Woodwindiana, 1999, SS, 11 + 9 pages (the bass
clarinet part includes a reduced size version of the piano part).
Premiered by
Howard Klug in 1996,
this single-movement piece illustrates great rhythmic interplay between
the two instruments and high contrast of musical moods.
A low C instrument is needed. Five and one-half minutes in duration. Click here
to listed to a short audio recording of the beginning. Click on the
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C1063: Sonata for Bass
Clarinet and Piano
by Alfred Prinz. Woodwindiana, 2002, SS, 33 + 9 pages. Dedicated to
Howard Klug and premiered by him in Vienna in 2002. This is an advanced
work that calls for a low C bass clarinet. In four movements: I.
Moderato, molto ritmico; II. Allegretto con grazia; III. Largo, molto
liberamente (there are no bar lines in this movement--the piano plays
sustained chords); and IV. Allegro molto moderato. |
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C415: Lyrical Concerto for Bass
Clarinet and Orchestra (Piano
Reduction) by Simon Proctor. Southern Music Company, 2004,
SS, 32 +
7 pages. The piece is for
extended range bass clarinet (although the only note in the extended
range is D and there are no low E-flats.) Also includes an
optional part for Medieval Cupped Bells which can also be played on
Tubular Bells (Chimes) or Bells (Glockenspiel). Originally written for
the serpent, this cheerful and melodious piece is especially
well-suited for performance on other instruments that occupy the same
tonal region including the bass clarinet. |
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C2169: Introduction
& March Bass
Clarinet and Piano by John Rarig. Western International
Music, 1968, SS, 11 + 4 pages. John Rarig (1912-1991) was an
American composer, arranger and vocalist know particularly for
his film and
popular music work. This is a college level piece in two sections. Click on
the cover image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1415: Lied Bass Clarinet and Piano by
François Rasse. Metropolis
Music, 1921, SS, 4 + 2 pages. François Rasse (1873-1955) was a Belgian
composer and music educator. Henri Bok believes that this may have been
the first published work written for bass clarinet and piano. It begins
with an Andante molto espressivo introduction, followed by a faster ben
cantando tempo, and returns to the original tempo near the end. This
piece has a conservative range and is not difficult. (Duration 2:35)![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1913: Afro
for Contrabass Clarinet in E-flat or B-flat and
Piano by Alfred Reed. E.B. Marks Music, 1966, SS, 5 + 1 pages. This is
from the composer's Five
Dances for Five Clarinets. This piece is marked Pesante and is meant to
represent things African. The publisher has marked this as grade III
and it includes a cadenza. Range to low E-flat in the E-flat contra
part. Includes some
performance notes. Duration is 4:15. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1912: Guaracha
for
Bass Clarinet and Piano by Alfred Reed. E.B. Marks Music, 1966,
SS, 4 + 2 pages. The direct source of this piece is the composer's Five
Dances for Five Clarinets (the other three pieces are here), but
the melody will be familiar to any clarinetists
who have performed Reed's Second Suite for Band. The Guaracha is a
Spanish dance. The tempo is Moderately, not too fast, but it is in cut
time at half note = 88. Upper intermediate level. Includes some
performance notes. Duration is 1:40. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2177: Haitian Dance
(Voodoo)
for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Alfred Reed. E.B. Marks Music, 1966,
SS, 7 + 2 pages. The tempo of this piece is Molto moderato
(half note = 72 in cut time). The publisher rates it at (US) grade 4
and the duration is 3:25. Includes some
performance notes. Somewhat unusually the piano has two solo sections
while the bass clarinet plays a rhythmic accompaniment. Click of
the cover image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2171: Concerto for Bass Clarinet and Orchestra (Piano Reduction) by Karel Reiner. Schott Music Panton, 1977, SS, 32 + 11 pages. Karel Reiner (1910-1979) was a Czech composer and pianist, persecuted by Nazis as a Jew and by communists as a formalist. He was the only classical composer to survive the concentration camp in Theresienstadt. This is an advanced piece with a range from the lowest C to the C four octaves above it. There is a very limited amount of bass clef. In three movements: I. Allegro energico, II. Andante-Poco grave, and III. Allegro assai. Here are the first and second movements on YouTube with orchestra. Click on the cover image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part. | |
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C1600: Trio Sonata for Viola, Bass Clarinet and Piano by Alan Richardson edited by John White. Comus Edition, 2000, SS, (includes parts and piano score). Alan Richardson (1904-1978) was a Scottish born composer and pianist who studied at Royal College of Music and was a professor of piano there from 1960 until his death. This piece was completed in June 1973 and was premiered by the Stadler Trio in 1974. Described by the publisher as "A short three movement work with some interesting sonorities." The three movements are: 1. Allegro energico, 2. Andante con moto, 3. Vivace. College level with a duration of 11 minutes. | |
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C1719: Sonatina for
Contrabass Clarinet (in
E-flat) and Piano
by William Schmidt. Western International Music, 1977, SS, 12 + 4
pages. In three movements in a fast/slow/fast form. While not that
difficult musically, it does include trills, glissandos, and some
sixteenth notes that will require some facility on the instrument. The
publisher rates this at (US) grade 3 and it is on festival lists for
IN, NY, OH, and TX (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1455: Sonate Op. 41 for Bass Clarinet and Piano
by Othmar Schoeck. Breitkopf, SS, 25 + 8 pages. Othmar Schoeck
(1886-1957) was a Swiss composer and conductor. The CD
lists the date of this sonata as 1928 which makes it an early work for
the bass clarinet as a solo instrument. In three
movements: I. Gemessen, II. Bewegt, and III. (attacca from movement II
and faster at the end). There are a few low Ds. College level with a
duration of 13:45. Here
is a video. ![]() |
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C1888: Duo
Sonata for
Clarinet and Bass Clarinet
by Gunther Schuller. Associated Music Publishers, 1976, SS, 12 pages
(two copies in score format). This is a college level work in three
movements: I. Adagio (6/8 with some 3/4, eighth note at 84), II. (2/4,
quarter note = 60), III. Allegro (2/4, quarter note = 92-96). Both
parts are challenging. The bass clarinet is mostly in the clarion and
altissimo registers. |
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C784: Adagio and Allegro Op. 70 for
Bass
Clarinet or Clarinet and Piano by Robert Schumann transcribed
by
Jean-Marc Volta. International Music Diffusion, 2002, 16 + 4 pages.
This piece, written in 1849, was originally for horn or violin or
cello and piano. The Adagio is Langsam mit innigem Ausdruck while the
Allegro is Rasch und feurig (Allegro con brio). For a clarinetist it
rates as an advanced high school level piece. However for the bass
clarinet, the range up to altissimo F and other technical demands place
it at the early college level. Duration is approximately 9 minutes. |
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C775: Fünf Stücke im Volkston Op. 102 for Bass Clarinet or Clarinet and Piano by Robert Schumann transcribed by Jean-Marc Volta. International Music Diffusion, 2002, 24 + 9 pages. These are pieces in the "popular" style and were originally for cello and piano. They are I. Vanitas vanitatum (Mit Humor), II. Langsam, III. Nicht schnell mit viel Ton zu spielen, IV. Nick zu rasch, and V. Stark und markiert. College level with a duration of about 16 minutes. Click on the cover image to view the first page of the clarinet part. | |
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C781: As If for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Patrice Sciortino. International Music Diffusion, 1992, SS, 14 + 4 pages. Patrice Sciortino (1922-) is a French composer and music educator. Dedicated to Jean-Marc Volta. An advanced piece that includes mixed meter, flutter and slap tonguing. Tight ensemble with piano is required in many places. This would be a real show stopper for a graduate or professional recital. | |
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C780: As If for Bass Clarinet, Vibraphone and Marimba by Patrice Sciortino. International Music Diffusion, 1998, SS, includes all parts and score. Another version of the piece above which would probably be even more impressive in performance than the piano edition. | |
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C1990: Calamus, Concerto for Bass Clarinet and Instrumental Ensemble (Piano Reduction) by Patrice Sciortino. Billaudot, 1990, SS, 24 + 9 pages. Dedicated to Jean-Marc Volta. This is an advanced work which requires a low C bass clarinet. In three movements. The first movement begins with a cadenza. Here is an audio file of the beginning with the instrumental ensemble. Click on the cover image to view the first page of the score. | |
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C774: Le Semainier for
Bass
Clarinet and Piano by Patrice Sciortino. International Music
Diffusion, 1994, SS, 4 + 7 pages. Note: the bass clarinet part is
mostly in
bass clef and the piano accompaniment is only for the last of the seven
movements, which are: Lune, Mars, Mercure, Jupiter, Venus, Saturne, and
Soleil. This is a challenging contemporary piece although it does not
employ extended techniques other than flutter and slap tonguing. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C795: Sore for clarinet
and bass clarinet duet
by Patrice Sciortino. International Music Diffusion, 1992, SS, 12 pages
with two copies of the parts in score format. This advanced duet
dedicated to Jean Mark
Volta would be perfect for a graduate recital. Features some high
altissimo in the both parts and notes in the extended range for the
bass clarinet. |
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C1538: Légende et Divertissement for
Bass Clarinet and Piano by Jules Semler-Collery. S.E.M.I),
1953, 8
+ 2 pages. A number of
customers have asked about this piece and we were able to track it down
and get the distributor to import it. It is clearly a reproduction of
the original 1953 edition. Jules Semler-Collery (1902-1988) was a
French composer, conductor and music educator. Legend is at a slow
tempo (mm=52) and opens with a cadenza followed by Assai
Moderato. Divertissement begins Pas trop vite mm=138 which alternates
with a slower tempo of mm=100. This is a college level piece with a
duration of 6:30.![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C431: A
Talk with the Unseen for Solo B-flat Clarinet or Solo Bass
Clarinet by Sergiu Shapira. Woodwindiana, 2001. This work won
the Bass Clarinet Alone Composition Contest at the ICA ClarinetFest '99
in Belgium. Its Romanian born, Jerusalem based composer has woven a
story about a search for a superior being into an attractive, and
successful, programmatic presentation. Three movements: I. Questioning,
II. Struggle, III. Resignation. Includes notes on the
composers
and the composer's notes on the piece. About 10 minutes in length. Click on the cover
image to view the first page of the music.
(Except other items with free shipping.) |
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S1071: Nocturne
for
Tenor Saxophone or Bass Clarinet and Piano by
Ivan Shekov. Kunzelmann, 1996, SS, 6 + 2 pages. Ivan Shekov (1942-) is
a Bulgarian composer and pianist who has lived in Germany since 1980.
This piece has a slow-fast-slow format with rhapsodic slower sections.
Early college level. Click on
the cover image to view the
first page of the instrumental part.
(Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1032: Tres Pensamientos for
Bass
Clarinet and Percussion by Roberto Sierra. Subito Music,
2000, SS,
8 pages (two parts in score format). This is a challenging work for
bass clarinet and percussion. It is in three movements: I Con precisión
ritmica (with bongos and congas), II. Sensual
con
momentos de violencia (with sizzle cymbal, guiro, 2 cencerros,
and wood block), III. Contante (with cencerros and congas).
Duration
about 3 minutes.![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1859: Argoru
V/a for
Bass
Clarinet Solo by Alvin Singleton edited by David Keberle.
Schott,
2009, SS, 9 pages. Alvin Singleton (1940-) is an American composer who
studied and worked in Europe for many years. His work has been
influenced by jazz and this piece is a good example. The original
version was composed for Harry Sparnaay and premiered by him in 1984.
The first two sections of the piece are marked "Blues-like" and
"Lively, Swing." It includes slap tonguing, two multiphonics (with
fingerings) and altissimo but nothing below a low E-flat. An advanced
work. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2147: Old Shoes Op. 54 Duets for Clarinet and Bass Clarinet by Don Stewart. Trillenium Music, 2013, SS, 13 pages. This work is in score format (2 copies) which some extra pages included to avoid page turns. This work was originally for clarinet and bassoon. The soprano clarinet part has the bassoon part on the second staff. Four pieces: 1. Some Blues, 2. After Mose (a down-south funk), 3. Waltz, and 4. After Cole (Porter, in the style of Billy May both a show-tune and a bop). College level. Click on the cover image to view a sample page. | |
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S629: Elegie for
Tenor Saxophone or Clarinet and Piano by Alec Templeton.
Emerson
Edition, SS, 6 + 2 pages. Alec Templeton
(1909-1963) was born in Wales and
although blind from birth, studied piano and composition at the Royal
College of Music in London. He moved to the United States in 1935 and
was very successful as a pianist and entertainer. This piece was
written in 1939. It has been described as displaying an enfolding calm
and as a gentle lyrical piece. Marked Maestoso (mm=60), it has some
rhapsodic elements and two short passages marked quasi cadenza. We note
that this is in Emma Johnson's repertiore on clarinet and Howard Klug
has recorded it on bass clarinet (we carry the CD). Duration about 5:50.![]() (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1457: Nieuw Werk for
Bass Clarinet and Piano by Paul Termos. Donemus, 1978, SS, 14
+ 4 pages.
Paul Termos (1952-2003) was a Dutch composer and saxophone player. "His
music is akin to that of Louis Andriessen and sounds like a mix between
American minimal music and Igor Stravinsky." An advanced work for bass
clarinet
and piano. It is at a tempo of quarter note = 76 (the parts include
32nd notes) and in mixed meter. The piano part is often only one
(sometimes in unison with the bass clarinet) or two lines of music.
Duration about 6:30 minutes. Here
is a video.![]() |
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C1766: A Gipsy for Ludo for Bass Clarinet and Accordion (Piano) by Leo Thys. Digital Music Print, SS, 2003, 10 + 4 pages. It is hard to find information on the composer but he appears to be a Belgian composer and accordionist. This is a sectional, college level piece with some mixed meter. The bass clarinet part ranges from low D to altissimo G. The accordion (piano) part has chord symbols throughout. | |
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C1642: A Sketch for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Akira Toda. Metropolis Music Publishers, 2010, 12 + 3 pages. Akira Toda (1951-) is a Japanese conductor, composer and euphonium player. This work is in three sections: Andante, Allegro assai (followed by a cadenza), and again Allegro assai. Early college level and does not use the extended range. Click on the cover image to view the first 5 pages of the score. | |
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C310: Wings for Solo
Clarinet or Bass Clarinet
by Joan Tower. Associated Music Publishers, 1983, 7 pages. A
challenging contemporary work for clarinet. (This work does not include
extended techniques.) (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1765: Tyl Uylenspiegel for Bass Clarinet and Piano by Willy Van Dorsselaer. Digital Music Print, 2006, SS, 14 + 4 pages. A work in three movements inspired by Till Eulenspiegel, the trickster, best known to musicians through the tone poem by Richard Strauss. The movements are: I. Escarmouche (skirmish), II. Cabrioles (probably in its meaning of caper) and III. Espieglerie (a prank). The publisher rates this as intermediate. Probably suitable for a student in the first two years of high school. Click on the cover image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part. | |
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C1061: Duet for Bass
Clarinet and Piano Op. 121
by Jakob Vejslev. Warner/Chappell Music Denmark, 1998, SS, 9 + 2 pages.
Danish composer Jakob Vejslev (1957-) began his musical career as a
pop/rock guitarist but has evolved into a jazz guitarist and a
composer. This piece requires a low C bass clarinet but is not
especially difficult. The format is a bit unusual as the treble clef
version of the bass clarinet part is in the score with the piano part
and a separate bass clef part is bound in following it. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C1062: Four Solos for Bass Clarinet Op. 97, 105, 106 & 107 by Jakob Vejslev. Warner/Chappell Music Denmark, 1998, SS, 23 pages. This set of pieces marks the beginning of Vejslev's compositions for bass clarinet. They were written for Dutch clarinetist Bert Chan (who is listed as a co-editor). The first and last solo use the extended bass clarinet range and are a bit more difficult than the other two (but should be easily playable by college bass clarinetists). An unusual feature of this collection is that all the pieces are presented in both treble and bass clef. | |
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C1951: Concerto
in la mineur Bass Clarinet
and Piano by Antonio Vivaldi adapted by Michel Bontoux.
Billaudot,
2012, SS, 15 + 4 pages. This work was originally for bassoon, strings
and harpsichord.
It includes bass clarinet parts in both treble and bass clef. This is
an advanced piece in three movements: Allegro molto, Andante molto, and
Allegro. There is
only one note in the extended range (a low D) so for all practical
purposes it could be played on any bass clarinet. Click on
the cover
image to view the first page of the bass clarinet part. |
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C2302: Ballad for Bass Clarinet with
Piano by Aras White. Andel, SS, 5 + 2 pages. A relatively brief piece
at the advance high school/early college level. The first portion is
Andante (mm=63) followed by Mosso (mm=96). There is one note (a low C)
in the extended range. Click on the cover
image to view the first 2 pages of the score. (Except other items with free shipping.) |
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C2017: From
Here on Farther for
Violin, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet and Piano by Stephen Wolpe.
Peer-Southern Concert Music, 1984/1993,
SS, includes parts and piano score. Stefan Wolpe (1902-1972) was born,
studied and began his career in Germany, but moved to Palestine in 1934
and to the United States in 1938. This work was written in 1969. This
work is in three sections, each of which begins with the same material.
The score includes notes on the piece and the editing. This an
advanced work with a duration of about 6 minutes. Here
is a link
to a recording. |
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C1898: Ballad
for Bass Clarinet
and Piano by Heinz Joachim Zander. Simrock, 1993,
SS, 19 + 7
pages. Heinz Zander
(1920?24-2004) was a Germany composer. This is an advanced piece in
three sections: Allegro, Andante (with a cadenza at the end), and
Allegro. There are notes in the extended low range although it could
probably be performed without an extended range instrument. However,
what is most notable is the frequent use of the altissimo to the E an
octave above the regular altissimo E. Click on
the cover
image to view the first page of the score.![]() |
Bindings: HB: Hard Bound, PB: Perfect Bound (paperback with square spine), SS: Saddle Stitch (paper, folded and stapled), SB: Spiral Bound (plastic or metal)