French organist composer and teacher Charles-Marie Widor (1844-1937) is predominantly known for his Organ symphonies. However his Introduction et Rondo for Clarinet and Piano also remains popular and is still regularly performed today. Widor became Director of Organ Studies at the Paris Conservatoire in 1890 and soon followed this by taking charge of the composition class. His Introduction et Rondo was composed in 1898 during his period at the Conservatoire and at the height of his career. The piece exploits the Clarinet to its full potential creating a challenging yet exciting performance on the instrument.Widor's Introduction et Rondo is essential to the repertoire of all advanced clarinetists.
