Dialogues between clarinet and strings in orchestral works by composers of the second half of the 18th century

Abstract

The article focuses on the specifics of interaction between clarinet and strings in orchestral music of the late 18th century. This article describes the analysis of different types of dialogues: contrasting dialogues, question-and-answer, parallel sounding, imitative dialogues, harmoniously complementary dialogues. It will be considered how these techniques were used to create dramatic tension, enhance emotional impact and enrich the orchestral texture. Using the examples of clarinet concertos by Mozart and Stamitz, symphonies by Joseph Haydn and Antonio Rossetti, and operas by Antonio Salieri, the role of the clarinet as an instrument capable of merging with the orchestra and interacting with the strings to create expressive and harmonious sound effects is explored. The clarinet interacts with the strings not only as an accompanying or solo instrument, but as an equal participant in the orchestral fabric, enriching the overall texture and adding depth to the musical content. It is shown that the timbre contrast between the clarinet and strings served as an effective means of conveying emotions and psychological states, and the harmoniously complementary dialog contributed to the perfection of musical drama. The article demonstrates how the expansion of the orchestral composition contributed to the formation of dialogic forms between groups of instruments and opens up new perspectives for the study of the evolution of the clarinet in orchestral music. The author emphasizes that the introduction of the clarinet into orchestral practice at the end of the 18th century was an important step in the development of musical art and laid the foundations of the romantic orchestral language. Particular emphasis is placed on the aesthetic and stylistic innovations that determined the significance of the clarinet in the context of the classical orchestral tradition. In particular, the analysis of the clarinet’s role in interaction with other orchestral groups allows for a deeper understanding of the evolution of instrumental music of the 18th century.