“Circus” by Eldar Hudiyev
Clarinet & Wind Ensemble | 3.5’ | Advanced | 2026
Born from childhood memories of attending the circus with the composer's grandfather, "Circus" serves as a metaphor for life by blending awe, nostalgia, joy, and drama. Originally written in 2022 for violin and string orchestra, the award-winning composition has continuously evolved, expanding from a full orchestral arrangement to a vibrant transcription for wind ensemble.
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Recording:
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About the Piece
"Circus" expresses sadness and joy, laughter and drama, courage and beauty, jokes and mastery, superficiality and depth. "Circus" is a metaphor for life.
Originally composed in 2022 for violin and string orchestra, "Circus" was born from cherished childhood memories of attending the circus alongside my grandfather. Those vibrant impressions—balancing awe and nostalgia—infused the original score with a sense of wonder.
In 2024, my brother, Farkhad Khudyev, masterfully orchestrated the piece for clarinet and full symphony orchestra. This iteration earned prestigious international acclaim—including the Grand Prize at the International Composition Competition in Atlanta, GA, and a Silver Medal at the Global Music Awards—and has been recently released on Ladoga Records.
Continuing its dynamic evolution, 2026 brings yet another chapter to the piece. This latest iteration features a brilliant transcription by Chase McCay, wonderfully reimagining "Circus" for a vibrant ensemble of winds.
Program Notes by Eldar Hudiyev
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Key Signatures: C major
Time Signatures: 4/4, 2/4, 2/2, 3/8, 3/4
Solos: Bb Clarinet
Advanced Techniques:
Features:
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Piccolo, 2 Flutes, 2 Oboes, English Horn, 2 Bassoons, 3 Clarinets in Bb, Bass Clarinet, Contrabass Clarinet, 2 Alto Saxophones, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone
3 Trumpets in Bb, 4 Horns in F, 3 Trombones, Euphonium, Tuba
Double Bass
Solo Bb Clarinet
Celesta / Piano
Timpani, 3 Percussion