A MOZART GALA FROM PRAGUE
It is always a privilege for me to begin the day with Mozart, as I did today! I listened to clarinetist Sharon Kam perform the A-Major clarinet concerto. Specifically, I heard the moving, sad second movement from this composition that dates back to its first performance in 1787.
Here are a few highlights of Mozart’s clarinet music from my Spotify files called “Hank’s Sharon Kam”
On this DVD that was created to celebrate Mozart, we hear the following selections:
- Don Giovanni: Overture, K.527
- Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra in A major, K.622
- Symphony No.38 in D major, K.504 “Prague”
Performed by Sharon Kam – basset clarinet- with the Czech Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Manfred Honeck
The overture to Mozart’s opera “Don Giovanni” K.527 is the first selection this disc. Don Giovanni premiered in Prague on 29 October 1787, conducted by Mozart himself. It was an immediate success, providing Mozart with the recognition that largely eluded him in Vienna.
Next comes Mozart’s Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra in A major K.622 that I heard this morning. Sharon Kam plays the Basset Clarinet; an instrument developed by Mozart’s close friend, the superb clarinettist Anton Stadler.
Ms. Kam creates a wonderfully warm tone and a wealth of effects from the instrument, especially in the low register.
The DVD ends with the Symphony No.38 in D major K.504 “Prague”.
Here is Sharon Kam in the piece I heard her play this morning: Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A – second movement:
And next, here is Ms. Kam, talking about and performing the Mozart Clarinet Quintet:
Tags: Mozart, Sharon Kam, Clarinet concerto, Clarinet Quintet