Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir d’un lieu cher, Op. 42, is a deeply lyrical and nostalgic work originally composed for violin and piano. Written in 1878, shortly after the completion of his Violin Concerto, this three-movement suite reflects Tchaikovsky’s gift for melody and expressive depth. The title, which translates to “Memory of a Beloved Place”, evokes a sense of longing and affection, qualities that resonate throughout the piece.
In this arrangement for clarinet and piano by Vincenzo Penza, the clarinet takes on the vocal expressiveness of the original violin part, offering a new perspective on Tchaikovsky’s rich harmonic language and soaring melodies. The warm and lyrical qualities of the clarinet bring a unique color to each movement, from the tender introspection of Méditation, to the delicate charm of Scherzo, and the heartfelt lyricism of Mélodie.
This edition, published by HDSB Music Publishing, aims to bring this beloved work to a wider audience, allowing clarinetists to explore the emotional depth and elegance of Tchaikovsky’s writing. We hope that performers and listeners alike will find joy and inspiration in this new interpretation.