Music for Clarinet and Tape

various artists compilation - Music for Clarinet and Tape

LP released in 1978

performers:

Phillip Rehfeldt - clarinet
Jonathan Kramer - mixer
Gene Kimball - electronics

Ran I.X. for Solo Clarinet and Tape (1976) by Victor Saucedo

RAN I.X. for Solo Clarinet and Tape was completed in April 1976. An algorithm was used to generate musical processes and a score on the IBM 360/22 computer at Southwestern College. The first part of the title, RAN, refers to the random number generator used in a subroutine to define parameters, i.e. rhythms, modes of execution, dynamics, etc. Limited dimensions were placed on the parameters and specific distribution curves applied to insure compatible melodic contours, rhythms, and dynamics between the final computer composition and the clarinet. I.X., a variable name for the values that are transferred from the subroutine to the main program, initiates distinct random number generation sequences. As the value of I.X. changes so does the random number sequence and subsequently the parameter definition, i.e., the general outline of the composition. The program, with the set values for I.X. then, is the essence of the clarinet part.
...
In this music the "dynamic rhythm" and reiterative melodic concepts of Amerindian music have been diametrically transformed and modulated as complements. The result is a duality similar to the duality concept of clarinet multiphonics versus computer multiphonics or clarinet random notes versus computer random notes, or even the idea itself of using an advanced technique such as the computer to generate primitive concepts associated with mystic ritual. (Victor Saucedo)

Antiphon II for Solo Clarinet and Tape by Michael Horvit

Antiphon II was written on commission from Phillip Rehfeldt and Barney Childs. It is the second in a series of works which combine solo performers with electronic tape, others being for saxophone, piano, violin, organ and marimba. The work is in two movements played without pause: "Atmospheres" and "Moto Perpetuo." It is based upon a twelve tone row but is freely tonal, particularly the jazzy second movement. "Atmospheres," as its title implies, is concerned primarily with color. It opens the row presented polyphonically on the tape alone. A dialogue follows between the tape and the clarinet during which they respond to each other, first the clarinet, then the tape, leading the way. Out of this grows a highly "atmospheric" section, arching higher and higher until the uppermost limits of the tessitura are reached. After remaining on this plateau for a moderate span, the music gradually descends, returning to a brief restatement of the opening material. "Moto Perpetuo" is built around a rhythmic ostinato. Jazzy in style, the clarinet and tape take turns with soloistic "rides." (Michael Horvit)

Renascence for Clarinet, Tape Delay System and Pre-recorded Tape (1974) by Jonathan Kramer

Renascence was commissioned in 1974 by Phillip Rehfeldt and Barney Childs under a faculty research grant from the University of Redlands. The title refers to (1) the rebirth of diatonic modality and constant pulse in contemporary music, (2) the rebirth of continuity from fragmentation within the piece, and (3) the poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay. The work is scored for solo clarinet, tape delay system, and prerecorded tape. The tape delay system records music played by the clarinetist and allows it to be played back some 20 seconds later, at which time it may again be recorded for later playback, etc. After an introduction the technician selects, in accordance with the score, certain fragments of the solo line to go into the tape delay system. When this music returns after 20 seconds, more music is added by the clarinetist, some of which is again selected for recording by the technician. In this manner a multi-layered texture is built up. At first the clarinet supplies more and more notes to fill in gaps in a melody previously recorded, so that a continuous line eventually emerges (right channel). This tune is strange, since it is continuous in terms of notes and rhythms but not in terms of tone quality, since each successive re-recording in the tape delay system diminishes the richness of the clarinet sound a bit.

Tracklisting:

Side 1

1. Victor Saucedo - Ran I.X. for Solo Clarinet and Tape {19:59}

Side 2

1. Michael Horvit - Antiphon II for Solo Clarinet and Tape {9:57}

2. Jonathan Kramer - Renascence for Clarinet, Tape Delay System and Pre-recorded Tape {10:20}

(1)