Jennifer Woodrum, clarinet

Chicago based clarinetist Jennifer Woodrum presents a solo set exploring the vast possibilities of the clarinet as a solo instrument. The centerpiece of the program, Steve Reich’s New York Counterpoint for 11 pre-recorded clarinets and solo clarinet, has inspired composers for over thirty years on how and what to write for the clarinet. Happy 80th Steve Reich! The program also includes an unaccompanied set of solos by Evan Ziporyn that feature the clarinet playing melodies of and imitating expressive qualities of non-Western instruments. Anna Clyne’s Rapture, sets the stage for the clarinet as a rock instrument, using distortion and reverb effects complimented by an industrial and raucous pre-recorded tape. Jennifer’s transcription of Jimmy Giuffre’s 1956 So Low transports the listener ever so briefly back to the cool jazz era exploring the sweet and rich darkness of the clarinet’s lower register. The program also features New York pianist Adam Marks in two duos for clarinet and piano by Roshanne Etezady and Chicago’s own Marc Mellits.
Jennifer is an active soloist and chamber musician throughout the United States. She is a former founding member of Chicago’s Fifth House Ensemble. Jennifer is on faculty at Carthage College and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside.