Nocturne

The name Nocturne (meaning "of the night") was originally an ensemble piece in the 18th century in several movements used for for evening parties. Later In the 19thc it's one movement form, it was adopted by John Field and later popularised by Chopin. It generally has a tranquil lyrical melody and is very romantic and expressive.

I have tried to keep these elements in this Nocturne. Written here for Clarinet in B flat, Viola and Piano, the parts are equally divided. Highest note top D flat ( clarinet once). Bowing for the viola has been left to the performer. It is written in the key of concert B flat minor it has a very gentle opening with harmonies evolving around a cycle of 5th's in places.

The piece has three definite sections- the lyrical melody to begin with, a middle section building to a climax before a return to the 1st section. This is followed by a transitional contrasting section (poco piu mosso) wandering through a few keys to settle on an "inner pedal" tonic note chime. Gentle chords restore the opening once more- this opening theme climaxes towards the end and a gentle reflection of the opening bars concludes the piece.