The Nineteenth - Century Italian Clarinet Tradition And Its Revaluation. The Case Of Ernesto Cavallini

In challenging the widespread belief that clarinet tradition is predominantly grounded in France and Germany, this volume presents research based on a case study on the Italian clarinet virtuoso Ernesto Cavallini (1807–1874). The aim of the study is to explore four identified facets of Cavallini’s figure: the Inspirer, the Performer, the Composer and the Instructor. An analysis of each facet is carried out in the attempt to offer insights into the distinctive style of the Italian clarinet virtuosity and into the character of national identity it embodies. The case study also provides an in–depth understanding of how the musical and technical demands of this repertoire were achieved despite the distinctive technical and mechanical features of the nineteenth–century Italian clarinet, which suggest a lagging–behind its northern counterparts. The importance of revaluating the Italian clarinet tradition in its true context within the European mainstream is ultimately at stake. Alfredo Vena, clarinet teacher and performer, is winner of the 2005 London City Livery Prize. He holds a Master of Music from the University of Sussex, U.K. He has given solo clarinet concerts in Australia, Italy, Singapore, Switzerland, Thailand and U.K. Orchestral experiences include collaboration as principal clarinet with youth and professional orchestras in Australia, Italy, Syria and U.K.