Music by DANIEL DORFF |
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| Slippery Slopes for Mixed Clarinet Sextet (or Ensemble) | |
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Duration: c. 6' 4 Bb Clarinets, 2 Bass Clarinets, opt. Bb Contrabass Clarinet
DETAILS PROGRAM NOTES Inspired by the commissioner's name and location, the title SLIPPERY SLOPES may also suggest a variety of meanings. While beginning work on the piece in September 2022, I learned of the passing of my former teacher, the great bass clarinetist Ron Reuben (who joined the Stan Kenton Band on saxophone after graduating from Curtis; he later served for 38 years as the Philadelphia Orchestra's bass clarinetist). Ron liked reminding me that most modern jazz is more inventively progressive than most modern classical. The opening 32 bars oozed out when I heard about Ron, and I originally thought this would become the 2nd of 3 movements in a little suite. But those opening bars just wanted to get up and dance. SLIPPERY SLOPES was commissioned by the Slippery Rock University Clarinet Studio, under the direction of Dr. Amanda Morrison. It is scored for 4 Bb Clarinets and 2 Bass Clarinets (not going below low Eb). An optional Bb Contra part is also provided. REVIEWS "...The texture of this [opening] section is largely chorale-based, making it an effective vehicle for developing ensemble blend and group dynamics. Originally conceived as a middle movement for a larger work, these opening bars ultimately took on a life of their own; in Dorff's words, they "just wanted to get up and dance." The second section does indeed dance, beginning with an energetic Allegro in 7/8 with occasional 4/4 and 3/4 measures, requiring rhythmic precision from every player. Demanding 16th note passages appear in all parts—both solo and tutti—and that, combined with the mixed meters, will provide an excellent challenge for a strong college clarinet ensemble. The writing is exciting and evokes big-band harmonies and salsa rhythms, resulting in a six-minute piece that is gratifying to perform and enjoyable for the listener." READ the complete review. – The Clarinet (Robyn Jones), September 2026 |
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last updated September 6, 2026 | |
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