Jeanjean Brillantes variations sur 'Le carnaval de Venise' for Clarinet and String Orchestra

Ready to showcase some serious virtuosity? Paul Jeanjean's Brillantes variations sur 'Le carnaval de Venise' is a dazzling showpiece that transforms a beloved Italian melody into a clarinet tour de force—and now, it's available with the rich, colourful support of a full string orchestra.

About the Piece

Composed around 1900, this work takes the famous Carnival of Venice theme—a tune that has captivated audiences for generations—and subjects it to a series of increasingly brilliant variations. Jeanjean, himself a virtuoso clarinetist and principal with the Garde Républicaine Band, crafted this piece to display the clarinet's full range of expressive and technical possibilities. From lyrical passages that sing with operatic warmth to lightning-fast runs and playful leaps, each variation presents new challenges and delights.

Our arrangement for clarinet and string orchestra elevates this classic work, giving it a lush, symphonic character whilst maintaining the solo clarinet's spotlight. The string orchestra provides a sophisticated harmonic foundation, adding depth and drama that makes this perfect for concert performance.

Key Features

• Instrumentation: Solo B♭ Clarinet with String Orchestra (Violin I, Violin II, Viola, Cello, Double Bass)
• Difficulty Level: Advanced (suitable for accomplished players and conservatoire students)
• Arranger/Editor: Meticulously arranged and edited by Paul Wood for MyMusicScores
• Format: High-quality PDF for instant download—full score and complete set of parts included
• Fidelity: Based on the original 1900 edition, expertly adapted for string orchestra with careful attention to balance and orchestral colour

Why It Matters

The Carnival of Venice has long been a rite of passage for virtuoso wind players, and Jeanjean's variations are among the finest examples in the clarinet repertoire. This piece isn't just about technical fireworks—it requires musical maturity, stylistic understanding, and the ability to shape a compelling narrative through variation form. With the added richness of string orchestra accompaniment, this arrangement offers advanced clarinetists a genuine concerto experience, perfect for competition, audition, or as the centrepiece of a recital programme.

Playing this work connects you to the golden age of French wind playing and the brilliant tradition of variation sets that stretches back through Paganini and beyond. It's a piece that deserves to be heard in its full orchestral glory.

Closing Note

Perfect for advanced students preparing for conservatoire auditions, professional soloists seeking a crowd-pleasing encore, or orchestras looking to feature their principal clarinet in a sparkling showpiece. Download your score and parts today, and please do share your performance with us—we love celebrating our community's achievements!