The Recently Rediscovered Works of Heinrich Baermann

Abstract

While Heinrich Baermann was one of the most famous virtuosi of the first half of the nineteenth century and is one of the most revered clarinetists of all time, it is not well known that Baermann often performed works of his own composition. He composed nearly 40 pieces of varied instrumentation, most of which, unfortunately, were either never published or are long out of print. Baermann's style of playing has influenced virtually all clarinetists since his life, and his virtuosity inspired many composers. Indeed, Carl Maria von Weber wrote two concerti, a concertino, a set of theme and variations, and a quintet all for Baermann. This document explores Baermann's relationships with Weber and other composers, and the influence that he had on performance practice. Furthermore, this paper discusses three of Baermann's compositions, critical editions of which were made during the process of this research. The ultimate goal of this project is to expand our collective knowledge of Heinrich Baermann and the influence that he had on performance practice by examining his life and three of the works that he wrote for himself.