Schubert's 'Arpeggione' sonata, now typically performed on viola or cello, earned its name from the instrument for which it was originally composed. The arpeggione, or guitar d'amour, was a six-stringed instrument, fretted and tuned like a guitar, but played like the 'cello, held between the knees and bowed. This transcription of the three-movement sonata provides the bass clarinetist with an excellent early-romantic virtuosic performance piece. The more advanced player might choose to add the entire sonata to a recital program; younger players might choose just one movement for contest or audition purposes. Original key and range maintained. Extended-range bass clarinet NOT required. Some passages require comfort with altissimo register; some players may choose to transpose a few measures down by one octave. |
