Bremen (epd). At least a German record: 346 clarinetists met on Saturday in Bremen for the 20th North German Clarinet Days. This means they entered the Guinness Book of Records as “Germany’s largest clarinet ensemble,” as the organizers announced on Sunday. Around 370 musicians would have been necessary to achieve the desired “Guinness World Record”. More than 390 also originally registered.
“We are happy and consider the campaign a complete success,” said artistic director Marco Thomas. “Being there was everything. We have created a huge community and brought a lot of attention to our favorite instrument, the clarinet.”
The musicians, who played the entire range of instruments from double bass clarinet to E-flat clarinet, initially rehearsed together. Then, under the direction of the composer Johan de Wit, they performed the three pieces “Intrada”, composed by Johan de Wit, as well as “Childhood Memory” and “Ballet Russe” by Gordon Jacob. According to the information, the event was supported by the instrument manufacturer Buffet Crampon.
The event celebrated the 20th anniversary of the North German Clarinet Days, as it was said. From a small chamber music festival, it has now developed into a clarinet festival known throughout Germany. A four-person team set it up on a voluntary basis.
