Sheep May Safely Graze: 5 Clarinets, Bass Clarinet Score & Parts

Marlatt's arrangement respects Bach's transparent textures while distributing the melodic and harmonic interest across six clarinet parts so that no player sits idle. The piece works equally well as a concert opener that calms an audience or as a contest selection that showcases ensemble blend and intonation without asking for technical fireworks.

A peaceful pastoral landscape unfolds through Bach's gently rocking harmonies and the soprano clarinet's grace-filled melody. The ensemble texture wraps the listener in warmth and clarity, creating an intimate moment despite the size of the group.

Clarinet choirs and large clarinet ensembles at the high school or early college level looking for Baroque repertoire that balances accessibility with musical substance. Directors seeking a work that develops ensemble listening skills without demanding advanced solo technique will find this arrangement particularly useful.

• Balance the soprano melody with supporting voices so the famous tune sings through without drowning out the harmonic foundation from the lower clarinets and bass clarinet.
• Shape the phrase arcs with gentle dynamic breathing rather than sudden shifts; this Baroque melody asks for tasteful restraint and long-line thinking.
• Lock the bass clarinet and lower clarinets first to establish harmonic stability, then add the upper voices so the ensemble settles into a unified sonority.

Open a concert with this arrangement to establish a contemplative mood, or place it between heavier works to provide contrast and give your ensemble a chance to demonstrate refined ensemble playing. Its brevity and accessibility make it an excellent choice for festival performance or as part of a Baroque-focused concert.

• Baroque phrasing and long-line melodic shaping
• Blend and balance in a six-part clarinet texture
• Sustained intonation in slow harmonic movement
• Listening to inner voices and harmonic support parts