Basset Clarinet

The focus of this treatise is the examination of newer works for the basset clarinet and various techniques composers employed when adapting their compositions for other instruments. While nearly every university-level clarinetist is aware that Mozart's Concerto for Clarinet KV622 was written for the basset clarinet, for many, their knowledge of the instrument remains relatively sparse. Chapters 1 and 2 provide a brief overview of the basset clarinet's history, information on acquiring an instrument, and a comparison of several editions of Mozart's Clarinet Concerto. In chapter 3, special focus is given to newer works written for the basset clarinet that have adaptations for more readily available instruments (A clarinet, B-flat clarinet, basset horn, and bass clarinet). Primary attention is directed toward the composers' methods in transcribing for these instruments. Works discussed are: Enchantment of Venus (Howard Blake), Solistice (Theresa Martin), Duo Sonata (Peter Schickele), Swan Song (Paul Richards), and Nocturne étincelant (Roger Zare). The ultimate goal of this material is for clarinetists to enhance their knowledge of the basset clarinet both historically and as a modern instrument, and provide a starting point to explore the basset clarinet repertoire.