If you have had the pleasure of attending a chamber music concert, then you undoubtedly experienced the intimate expression of musical ideas that are uniquely inherent in a small ensemble. Chamber music has been described as the “music of friends” because it was and is written and played by amateur or professional musicians, for real music lovers, either for aristocratic and princely courts or in formal parties in private homes.
One dictionary definition of chamber music is: instrumental music for a small ensemble where each part is played by only one performer suitable for a small audience in a small chamber or room. Hence, because this music was suitable for rooms smaller than the great concert hall, it was called chamber music.
There are many people who prefer and appreciate the intimacy, subtlety and refinement a small ensemble offers rather than a large symphony orchestra. “It is at once one of the most enjoyable and most dignified of literature,” wrote Homer Ulrich in his book Chamber Music. “To know chamber music is to revere it; to hear chamber music is to enjoy it.” Johann Wolfgang von Goethe happily described chamber music, specifically the string quartet, as “the serious conversation of four individuals.”
Origins
Although the progenitors of early chamber music date back to the medieval period, almost all chamber music dates from around 1750, the so called beginning of the classic period. During this period the most famous and prolific composer and interpreter was Franz Joseph Haydn (1732-1809), who established the form and style we hear to this day. He became known as the “father of the string quartet.” This great tradition, established by Haydn, was carried on by Wolfgang Mozart (1756-1791), Ludwig van Beethoven (1770-1827), and many successors up to the present time.
During the 18th century, many prominent composers were in the purview of aristocrats and royalty. Haydn, for example, was the employ of Prince Nikolaus Esterhazy of Eisenstadt, (some historians say he was a Count) and was influential in European politics and art. It was here that Haydn honed his compositional skills to an exceptional degree.
The aristocracy began to decline in the early 19 century and musicians had to make their own living by selling, composing and performing on their own without the help of their aristocratic employers. This ushered in a new era of chamber music.
Chamber music was mostly amateur music played in small rooms in private houses until well into the 19th century. Unlike today, with music available at the push of a button, two hundred years ago people had to make their own entertainment including making music.
This all changed around the time of Beethoven. “Professional chamber music players became active, and the two classes, mainly performers and listeners, took a long step back from each other. It became more fashionable to listen than to play,” according to Ulrich.
Clarinet Chamber Music
Wolfgang Mozart introduced the clarinet in the chamber music repertoire. It has been the mainstay ever since. Obviously, the string quartet is the predominating medium for chamber music. But there are many other instrument combinations in the chamber music repertoire.
Clarinet Fusion
‘Clarinet Fusion’ is a brand new group in the Bay Area chamber music scene. It is a unique clarinet ensemble made of all the clarinets used regularly in bands and orchestras, some rarely used. The fledgling group has already performed several concerts to rave reviews. Many of their listeners have commented they had no idea clarinets could sound so marvelous in combination with each other. “The range and versatility of the clarinet is really quite remarkable, said Karyn Weber, founder of Clarinet Fusion and Principal Bass Clarinet in the Danville Community Band.
The clarinets used in the ensemble are: the A-flat piccolo, E-flat sopranino, B-flat soprano, E-flat alto, B-flat bass, EE-flat contra alto and the BB-flat contra bass clarinet. Together they make a wonderful, glorious sound which is rarely heard in any other ensemble.
I was flattered when I was asked to be the director of this group of very talented clarinet musicians. Being a clarinetist myself, I didn’t hesitate to say “yes” and I am enthralled by their fine playing. The ten musicians in Clarinet Fusion, collectively, boast more than 350 years of clarinet-playing experience. Please don’t hesitate to attend a concert and hear for yourself a wonderful new sound. Clarinet Fusion is available for parties and other events. For information call 925-372-8847.
Please submit your questions and comments to banddirector01@comcast.netVisit our website at www.danvilleband.org for up-to-date information about the Danville Community Band.
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