Description
Eb Clarinet, 3 Bb Clarinets, Alto Clarinet, 2 Bass Clarinets, Contra-Alto Clarinet and Contrabass Clarinet – Alto Clarinet and Bass Clarinet 2 divisi sections can be assigned to either player based on the members of the ensemble
Dmitri Shostakovich’s Festive Overture is a staple in the orchestral literature, and has since been arranged and rearranged for everything from wind ensemble to brass ensemble and beyond. Written in 1954 in a span of just 3 days, this upbeat, joyous piece was conducted by the composer himself for the Bolshoi Theatre’s 37th anniversary of the 1917 Revolution. It features strong melodic themes, plenty of technical flamboyance, and a thrilling finish, making it a perfect candidate for opening or closing a program.
This arrangement attempts to stay faithful to the original orchestral score, while using a much more agreeable key for Bb clarinets. For the purpose of fitting the needs of various clarinet choirs, Bass Clarinet 2 doubles Alto Clarinet, and Contrabass doubles Contra-alto Clarinet. It is recommended that there be at least two clarinets per part, aside from Eb clarinet and Contra-alto/bass, though feel free to adjust accordingly based on strength and size of the ensemble.
Eddie Sundra currently holds the position of 2nd and Associate Principal Clarinet with the Richmond Symphony Orchestra and has also held positions with the Hartford Symphony Orchestra and Lima Symphony in Ohio. In addition to being an active orchestral musician, Eddie has composed and arranged works ranging from solo clarinet and chamber ensemble to electronic music and indie-folk genres. Originally from Philadelphia area, Eddie received degrees in performance and chamber music from the Pennsylvania State University and the University of Michigan.
To learn more about Eddie, check out eddiesundra.com.
