Clarinova

Originally written for the final examination at the Paris Conservatoire, Debussy's "Première Rhapsodie" quickly became one of the most popular pieces in the clarinet literature, as the "Rhapsodie" is without doubt a highly impressionistic work that makes virtuoso use of the clarinet's tonal possibilities, subtle nuances and colours.
Its success was so resounding that Debussy later transcribed the piano accompaniment for large orchestra - in this form, the Rhapsody can still be heard in the world's great concert halls today. Nicolai Pfeffer has orchestrated this work for the extraordinarily colourful instrumentation of Ravel's "Introduction et Allegro", which also allows the work to be performed in a chamber music context outside of the widespread duo instrumentation.
The "Petite Pièce" is another example of Debussy's mastery of the clarinet. Although it was conceived for the Paris Conservatoire's sight-reading exam and comprises just 40 bars, this charming gem is often performed as an encore in concert programmes for clarinet and piano. As a little "cadeau", it was arranged for the same instrumentation and is included in this edition for interested players. We hope that this edition will present Debussy's "Première Rhapsodie" and "Petite Pièce" in a new light and inspire both musicians and listeners to explore and appreciate the fascinating soundscapes of these important works.