Peter Sparks (Clarinet)
Which instrument do you play? Clarinet
Where were you born? Where do you live now?
Born - Bangor, North Wales
Grew up – Preston, Lancs.
Live now in Surrey
What is your favourite musical memory?
Playing Shostakovich Symphony No. 10 with Rostropovich at the BBC Proms
Very powerful musical experience
Why did you decide on your instrument?
Loved the sound of the clarinet – sang a lot when I was a kid, and it is similar to the human voice in many ways.
What is the most memorable performance you’ve given and why/highlight of your career?
Playing Shostakovich Symphony No. 10 with Rostropovich at the BBC Proms
Very powerful musical experience
Also, Schumann piano concerto with Martha Argerich
Also, John Adams clarinet concerto, ‘Gnarly Buttons’ – very fun piece
In your opinion, which piece of music is a must-have for the CD collection, classical or otherwise?
Mendelssohn Italian Symphony No. 4 - particularly the first movement
Which musician(s) have you most enjoyed playing with?
Mstislav Rostropovich, James Levine, Valery Gergiev.
In your opinion, which piece of music most embodies the spirit of Lancashire?
Mahler Symphony No. 4 (arranged for chamber orchestra). The Sinfonietta performed this and it was hugely exciting. The performance was full of commitment and intensity, and the piece has moments of real beauty.
