Nutcracker Suite, Part II: March: 4 Clarinets (Flute/Clarinet, Clarinet, Clarinet/Alto-Clarinet, Bass Clarinet & Piano, Bass & Percussion Ad Lib) Conductor Score & Parts

Bill Mays transforms one of classical music's most recognizable marches into a vehicle for clarinet ensemble work that swings naturally. The arrangement preserves Tchaikovsky's melodic architecture while giving each clarinet voice a musical voice; the optional rhythm section parts mean you can perform this anywhere from a concert hall to a jazz club.

Playful and purposeful, like a military procession that has learned to smile. The march keeps its stately character, but Mays's jazz voicings and voice-leading give it swing and warmth. It's festive without being saccharine.

Clarinet quartets seeking a winter concert standard that works in both classical and jazz contexts. This arrangement suits ensembles with solid intonation and ensemble experience; the jazz harmonies and optional rhythm section add sophistication without requiring advanced swing technique.

• Balance the melody between first and second clarinets; Mays writes both parts as primary voices, so resist the urge to push the top line.
• Lock the articulation across all four clarinet voices during the marchlike sections to create definition and ensemble cohesion.
• If using the rhythm section, let the piano and bass establish the harmonic foundation before the clarinets enter; this clarifies Mays's jazz voicings.
• Shape the alto clarinet line with care; it often carries inner harmonic material that anchors the chord changes without overstating them.

Slot this into a December or early January concert either as a self-contained clarinet quartet piece or as a bridge between classical and jazz sets. Its recognizable tune and manageable length (it's a single movement) make it ideal for mixed-level holiday programs or as a statement piece when you want to show your clarinet section's versatility.

• Balancing individual voice independence while maintaining ensemble blend
• Reading and executing jazz harmony and swing articulation
• Adapting to optional rhythm section parts and responding to harmonic accompaniment
• Intonation in tertian and jazz voicings across four different clarinet registers