More Trios for Clarinets: Clarinet Book

Cacavas crafted these trios with a musician's ear for what works on three clarinets. The collection spans centuries of musical styles (from Bach to Tchaikovsky, folk traditions to Broadway) without sacrificing the clarity and balance that make trio playing rewarding. Directors appreciate that these arrangements maintain distinctive character and musicality while remaining genuinely playable for developing ensembles.

The collection moves effortlessly between familiar classics and recognizable tunes, creating moments of genuine musicality even in shorter arrangements. Each trio has its own character, whether rollicking (like the Can-Can), lyrical (Swan Lake, Barcarolle), or spirited (Havah Nagila), keeping rehearsals engaging and performances fresh.

This collection serves clarinets in grades 5-8 who are ready for small ensemble work but still developing their independence and listening skills. It works equally well for three players in a private studio or for selecting trios from a mixed band or orchestra rehearsal.

• Balance the three parts by having the melody lead; resist the urge to make the accompanimental voices too prominent, even when they contain interesting figures.
• Listen carefully for the underlying harmonic progression, which will help the group lock together and shape phrases as an ensemble rather than three individuals.
• Vary articulation slightly among the three voices to clarify texture and part independence, especially in arrangements with distinct accompanying patterns.

Use individual trios as concert filler between larger ensemble pieces, programming them by mood or era to create a varied recital. You might also pull three trios from the collection to form a short standalone concert of clarinet chamber music, showcasing how well young players are developing their ensemble listening and balance.

• Balancing melodic and accompanimental roles within a small ensemble
• Listening to and matching intonation with two other players
• Maintaining rhythmic independence while staying synchronized with peers
• Shaping phrases and creating musical direction in a trio texture
• Reading and interpreting stylistically diverse arrangements (folk, classical, jazz-influenced)