Rhapsody [conductor’s score]

Rhapsody was composed in 2021 at the request of the renowned clarinettist Ronald Van Spaendonck. Conceived as a virtuosic tour de force, the work unfolds in a single movement, structured in three sections: ABA′.

The opening section (A) begins with the orchestra gradually building an ostinato, over which the clarinet introduces a rhythmically incisive theme. A contrasting, more lyrical theme soon follows, though it remains supported by a second ostinato figure in the orchestra. This builds to a dramatic climax, which then gives way to an extended solo cadenza, incorporating and transforming the thematic material introduced thus far. Here, the clarinetist is called upon to display both technical brilliance and expressive depth.

The central section (B) adopts a much calmer and more introspective tone. The clarinet engages in dialogue with solo instruments from within the orchestra — notably violin, viola, and cello — evoking the spirit of a Symphonie concertante, while the ensemble provides a delicate and supportive backdrop.

The final section (A′) revisits earlier material, though now highly varied and transformed. Motifs from both A and B are intricately superimposed in rich contrapuntal textures, culminating in a brilliant and exhilarating conclusion.