Description
Clarinet Quartet in Eb Major Op.622. Samples from 1st Movt, 2nd Movt and 3rd Movt.
Clarinet Quartet in Eb Major Op.622
Level: Advanced
Clarinet Quartet in E♭ Major, Op. 622 — for Clarinet and Strings
Composed 2009–2026
This work marks my first venture into writing a chamber piece for clarinet and strings. The earliest sketches date from around 2009, with subsequent revisions in 2010 and 2013, culminating in this final published version in January 2026. Stylistically, the quartet is rooted in the Classical idiom of the late 18th century.
The Movements
i. Allegro con spiritoso
The work opens with a lively and spirited main theme introduced by the clarinet, accompanied by a playful call-and-response from the strings. A contrasting second theme emerges in the violin, later migrating to the cello and returning once more to the violin. A brief transitional passage ushers in a minor-key restatement of the first theme, taken up and transformed by the clarinet. The movement concludes with a concise recapitulation, bringing back both principal themes before driving forward to a bright and decisive coda.
ii. Adagio
In marked contrast to the exuberance of the first movement, the second movement unfolds with gravity and introspection. Its first theme is dark, defiant, and solemn, setting the emotional tone for the entire movement. The theme reappears in various guises — at times in the clarinet’s expressive solo lines, at others within the string accompaniment. The clarinet line floats and weaves above the ensemble, painting broad, colorful phrases that evoke a sense of contemplation and quiet yearning. The music moves fluidly between moments of melancholy and passages of gentle radiance and joy.
iii. Allegro con brio
This final movement bounces forth in a cheerful, waltz-like rhythm. A simple yet infectious main theme is exchanged playfully between the clarinet and strings, shifting between major and minor keys. The energy builds continuously, culminating in a cascade of rapid clarinet triplets against the strings’ buoyant melody. The quartet concludes triumphantly with a sweeping arpeggio and two resonant E♭ major chords.
This product comes with clarinet in Bb, Violin, Viola and Cello parts as well as mp3 performance and backing tracks.
Duration: circa 12 mins
