Otto M. Schwarz

Crossover Suite No. 1

The Crossover Suite No. 1 consists of five stylistically very different movements. 1. INTRODUCTION: A brisk introduction leads us into a bass groove of the bass clarinet. Snapping fingers and other moving stylistic devices are juxtaposed with rigid elements known from marching music. 2. VIENNESE WALTZ: A Viennese waltz in minor that features the "Viennese-style" characteristic and indispensable waltz accompaniment. 3. ROUNDABOUT: Roundabout - the "spinning top" - is a rondo with recurring motifs and a resting point in the adagio section. 4. STOMPS AND CLAPS: As the name suggests, this is done with hands and feet. Body percussion alternates with technically demanding passages. 5. FINALE: A fast final movement with a middle section in dolce leads to a furious final section, which comes up with time changes and some dynamic surprises. Each movement could stand on its own, but when played in context, this suite shows the diversity and possibilities of a clarinet quartet instrumentation.