Largo from New World Symphony for Clarinet Duet

As a new immigrant to America in 1893, Czech composer Antonín Dvořák wrote his ninth symphony, popularly known as the “New World Symphony.” Dvořák was largely interested in Native American music and African-American spirituals, which he incorporated into his symphony. The nostalgic “Largo” melody originated from the second movement of this symphony and was given lyrics and published separately in 1922 by the composer’s student, William Arms Fisher.

This arrangement features the melody in the first clarinet complemented by the countermelody in second clarinet. Performers must pay special attention to dynamic contrasts and balance between the two parts.