Master Class with Sharon Kam

World-renowned clarinetist Sharon Kam explores the lyrical nuances of Carl Maria von Weber's Clarinet Concerto No. 1 in F Minor, Op. 73, in this master class. Known as a staple of the clarinet repertoire, this piece was composed in 1811 for virtuoso Heinrich Bärmann, but ended up being a collaboration between player and composer. Expressive melodies and dramatic contrasts bring a dazzling sparkle to the table in this Romantic masterpiece. In this master class, Kam and her student focus on control, highlighting the importance of breath support in backing every note to achieve a smooth sound despite register leaps. Recognized as one of today’s leading soloists, Sharon Kam’s career spans over two decades; she has performed with major orchestras across the United States, Europe, and Japan. Kam does not limit herself to classical music, however—she is an active performer of contemporary music, having premiered numerous works, including Krzysztof Penderecki’s Clarinet Concerto and Clarinet Quartet, as well as concertos by Herbert Willi (at the Salzburg Festival).