The Entertainer: 2 Clarinets & Keyboard Part(s)

David Marlatt's arrangement brings fresh life to an overfamiliar classic by redistributing the musical material between two clarinets and piano, creating genuine dialogue rather than simple accompaniment. The addition of newly composed counter-melodies keeps both the pianist and second clarinetist engaged throughout, and the interplay between soloists and accompaniment gives student clarinetists a real sense of partnership.

The syncopated energy and infectious charm of Joplin's original shines through in the clarinet lines while the piano grounds the piece in stride-like figures that evoke the composer's own pianistic style. The result is simultaneously familiar and reinterpreted, honoring the source material while creating something that feels fresh for both player and listener.

This arrangement suits intermediate clarinet duos and small chamber groups looking for repertoire that is immediately recognizable yet musically substantive. Clarinetists at the medium level will find the melodic demands straightforward while the rhythmic precision and dialogue with the keyboard part offer genuine performance challenges.

• Establish the ragtime pulse in rehearsal as a felt groove rather than a metronomic beat; the swing and bounce of Joplin's syncopation demand rhythmic elasticity from both players and the pianist.
• When the clarinets trade melodic sections with the piano, shape each phrase distinctly so listeners hear the conversation rather than a blur of notes.
• Balance the two clarinet lines carefully during unison or parallel passages; the second clarinet's newly composed counter-melodies should be audible but never compete with the primary melody.

This works exceptionally well on pops concerts or chamber music recitals where you want to acknowledge American musical heritage alongside more traditional classical repertoire. Consider pairing it with other Joplin rags or placing it as a lighter moment between weightier works to showcase the versatility of your clarinetists.

• Ragtime rhythm and syncopation in ensemble context
• Balanced ensemble playing with clear melodic hierarchy
• Interplay and dialogue between soloists and accompaniment
• Stylistically informed articulation and phrasing for early 20th-century American music
• Independence from keyboard accompaniment while maintaining harmonic cohesion