Jennifer Showalter: Reviews

Advance Praise for "European Adventure":

Bravo to Jennifer Showalter on her beautiful playing throughout this CD! I know how challenging it is to play the different styles of Debussy to Stravinsky to Brahms...and she did it all so well. I also really liked the CD design and the extensive program notes. Ms. Showalter can be very proud of how this project turned out and I wish her continued success!"

I find a real musical freshness in Ms. Showalter's playing. She finds the thread to bringing the musical essence out of each work. Her work on the clarinet brings all the elements of each composition together blending the technical and musical aspects into a most satisfying presentation for the listener."

Ms. Showalter's fresh approach to the featured selections by Arnold, Debussy, Stravinsky, Brahms and Lovreglio shows incredible precision and technique, unsurpassed by others who have attempted such major works. Her fine interpretation and execution of the pieces is right on the mark, as is her rich and velvety tone and balance with the pianist. Each number offers unexpected pleasure to the listener; 'European Adventure' is a total delight."

This is a delightful CD of music for clarinet and piano and clarinet solo. The package includes extensive program notes and biographies.

The works chosen for this CD represent a broad spectrum of music for the clarinet. Each is performed to perfection by the artists. Miss Showalter demonstrates a flawless technique and gorgeous tone, with smooth and graceful execution of these difficult pieces -quiet and meditative at times, or forceful and brilliant, depending upon the mood of the work. The Brahms is especially sensitive. The Lovreglio evokes images of a master cornet virtuoso thrilling a concert audience with a tongue and finger twister. Dr. Clifft’s accompaniment is crisp and supportive, a pleasure to listen to.

The sound of clarinet and piano is perfectly captured on this CD with correct balance of the two at all times."

'European Adventure' features an interesting mix of standard favorites and unfamiliar surprises. The Malcolm Arnold 'Sonatina' is an especially delightful discovery that gets better with every listen. Ms. Showalter's beautiful, soaring phrases and Dr. Clifft's solid, sensitive accompaniment are wonderfully balanced throughout. An engaging program from start to finish, this CD is a welcome addition to any wind music lover's collection."

'European Adventure' from Jennifer Showalter is a 'must listen' for all my clarinet and woodwind students. Ms. Showalter's exquisite interpretations and flawless technique guarantee a truly rewarding listening experience!"

Great CD! I listen to this on my commute to work. I like the variety. Beautiful work!"