Clarinet Concerto in A major, K.622

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Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A major, K. 622 is a beloved composition for the clarinet, perfectly capturing the instrument’s expressive range and lyrical beauty.
Composed in 1791, during the final months of Mozart’s life, the concerto holds a special place in his repertoire (in fact: his last concerto), embodying a sense of both joy and profundity.

Written for Anton Stadler, a close friend and renowned clarinettist, the work was originally intended for the basset clarinet, an instrument with a richer, extended lower range, that appeared first around 1770, and for which Stadler probably made modification suggestions to instrument manufacturer Theodor Lotz around 1788.

From the very first notes, the concerto captivates with its vibrant, flowing melodies, which effortlessly balance technical brilliance with heartfelt lyricism.
The slow middle section is especially moving, often regarded as one of Mozart’s most sublime creations.
Its tender, ethereal quality allows the clarinet to shine in an almost vocal manner, deeply resonating with listeners.

The finale, with its playful and lively spirit, brings the work to a joyous conclusion, showcasing Mozart’s unmatched ability to combine elegance with exuberance.

This concerto remains a fundamental part of the clarinet repertoire, loved for its melodic beauty and its ability to highlight the clarinet’s full tonal range, from its rich, mellow depths to its sparkling high notes.
It continues to be performed by clarinettists worldwide, a testament to Mozart’s enduring genius and his deep understanding of the instrument.

Anecdote

An interesting anecdote revolves around the close relationship between Mozart and Anton Stadler, the clarinettist for whom the work was written.
Stadler was known for his exceptional skill on the basset clarinet, and Mozart admired his playing so much that he tailored the concerto specifically for this extended-range instrument.

Mozart gave the completed manuscript in October 1791 to Stadler.
Mozart's widow told a publisher later that Stadler had either lost it, pawned it or had it stolen from him.
Legend has it that Stadler was somewhat notorious for borrowing money and not repaying it, and despite this, Mozart maintained a close friendship with him.

Mozart even once humorously referred to Stadler's "golden clarinet" as the source of his debt troubles!
This friendship, quirks and all, gave birth to one of the most remarkable works for clarinet.

World premiere

Synchestra is the first music editor, as far as we know, who prepares a conductor score showing both the original basset clarinet notes and the adapted notes for a modern clarinet (the deepest notes are then transposed with one or two octaves higher).
And all clarinettists will be able to play this concerto whether they have an instrument in A (as intended by Mozart) or a standard instrument in B flat: in the latter case, our orchestra plays just a half tone higher.