Movie Instrumental Solos: Clarinet Book & CD

Heroic, mischievous, and cinematic. These ten arrangements capture the dramatic sweep of their source films while keeping technical demands within reach. You'll feel the weight of the Duel of the Fates, the quirky playfulness of Soul Bossa Nova, and the soaring romance of Across the Stars.

Clarinet students progressing through grade 2-3 material who respond better to recognizable tunes than traditional etudes. These solos work equally well for students building confidence in recital performance or for ensemble directors seeking engaging filler material that complements concert programming.

• Study the performance track first to internalize phrasing and articulation choices before attempting the accompaniment track. Film scores rely on specific rhythmic and dynamic shaping that may differ from classical models.
• Mark breath points in pencil before rehearsals begin. These arrangements compress cinematic lines into solo format, so planning where to breathe preserves the intended shape.
• Balance vibrato conservatively in the lower register. Several arrangements sit comfortably in the clarinet's lower chalumeau, where a restrained vibrato maintains clarity against orchestral accompaniments.
• Pay attention to the marked dynamics and articulations. They're designed to help your tone cut through the recorded accompaniment and create the dramatic character the film score demands.

Program a single movement as a recital solo accompanied by the included track, or build a short film music showcase using compatible solos from across the series. These work particularly well on pops concerts or end-of-year performances where familiar melodies draw engaged audiences.

• Reading and performing with accompany tracks
• Phrasing across longer melodic lines typical of film scores
• Dynamic shaping and articulation as written musical markers
• Balancing solo clarity against dense harmonic accompaniment
• Sustaining tone quality across extended passages in the middle and lower register