Since the bass clarinet hasn't been in existence as long as the cello or even the clarinet, we simply don't have the volume of solo bass clarinet music that other instrumentalists enjoy. So we steal. . .err borrow. . .
Here are my top picks for my own students with at least 4 years of instruction:
Eccles: Sonata in G minor, bass clarinet with piano, originally written for cello
Bach: Six Suites, Alea Publishing; these cello suites are transcribed for solo bass clarinet; some sections work well for an intermediate-level player, and some will require more advanced skill and a low C extension.
Cavallini: Adagio and Tarantella for clarinet and piano; this piece shows off fast fingers and an extensive range.
Saint Saëns: Clarinet Sonata in Eb M, Op. 162; the first movement of this sonata for clarinet and piano works nicely on bass clarinet
Weber: Concertino for Clarinet Op. 26, ed Eric Simon; although not what the composer intended, the bass clarinet can really sing through this piece.
Mozart: Bassoon Concerto, transcribed for bass clarinet, Alea Publishing; although written for bassoon, I think Mozart would have loved hearing it on bass clarinet, had it existed then.
For original solos for bass clarinet, check out Part 2 of this series. If Intermediate is more your speed, be sure to read Part 1. This certainly isn't an exhaustive list; it's music on my shelf that I enjoy. I'd love to hear suggestions from other readers.
Thanks for reading! Now go practice.
Happy Bass Clarineting!
Amy
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