Recitative & Arioso

The Recitative and Arioso, which is about 8 minutes in length, features two main sections with contrasting moods, melodic, and rhythmic material. It is designed to be a nice addition to the repertoire of an advanced undergraduate student or graduate recital, or as a part of a concert performance by a professional performer. The Jazz influence is especially evident, particularly regarding the harmonic progression in both movements, and the overall rhythmic vitality. The initial opening ideas of the Recitative are briefly reprised at the end of the Arioso, giving the piece a 'rounded' overall form. The Recitative, which is a quiet, reflective, almost a haunting movement, should be played in the expressive manner of an introspective Jazz ballad. The Arioso is a more 'upbeat', a jocular, and even a capricious piece, that contrasts nicely with the Recitative. Although the tempo is faster in this section than in the Recitative section, it should be played in a relaxed manner, with no sense of urgency. Both the clarinet and piano should be viewed as complementary partners, presenting the material in a distinctly antiphonal manner. As the composer is both a clarinetist and a pianist, he kept the technical demands at a moderate to mildly challenging level for both players. His viewpoint is that both the performers and the audience should have an enjoyable and fun experience.