“Rush E” is the final boss when it comes to ‘classical’ music. We say ‘classical’ because this parody piece of classical music debuted not too long ago, in 2018, when it was posted to the Sheet Music Boss YouTube channel. But since ascending to instant meme status, this chaotic composition has had classically trained musicians competing to master the impossible music once and for all.
However, one clarinet pro brought the meme to a brand new level when he bravely covered the track on his woodwind instrument, wowing fans with his brain-bending skills and unimaginable breath control. As one fan wrote, “As someone who played the clarinet, this dude is literally insane.” Music Man readers can check out HD Tang’s 5-million-times-viewed cover in the clip below!
The clarinetist begins his rendition laid back in his office chair, casual and unsuspecting, tooting the first, slow cycle of the theoretically simple, yet soon-to-be-hectic melody. The Russian-inspired music is janky but upbeat, like a long-lost soundtrack from the Borat films.
Never come across the “Rush E” phenomenon before? Check out the 104-million-times-viewed original piece in the video below.
Digitally composed, it’s practically impossible to play the original piano piece in a traditional setting, featuring more notes voiced at once than a pianist has fingers, the piece’s mind-boggling speed increasing with each chaotic revolution.
So, once this clarinetist hits the high-speed sections, the pressure is certainly on.
As the speed amps up, the clarinetist becomes a figure of pure focus, his concentration verging on hilarity as he eyes the sheet music off-screen.
The ‘chorus’ section gives him a slight break – dancing to the rapid beat as best he can while mastering the convoluted melody. He’s clearly loving the moment, even adding a meme of his own into the mix, but once that devilish main section comes back around, he’s a creature of unbelievable musical control.
It’s one thing to hit the ‘E’ key on piano in fast, rhythmic succession. But tooting those notes on the clarinet, keeping each note distinct, separate and in time is like watching a new Paganini in the flesh. He hardly misses a note or a beat, sailing through the winding melodies with impeccable skill. It’s not an easy feat for him, though, wiping sweat from his brow at the first chance he gets and stretching his worn fingers during the lull. When the key change strikes near the end of the piece, the clarinetist has proved himself a virtuoso, and his fans can’t get enough.
While some viewers have been busy quipping jokes about this rendition (a show-stealer: “Squidward been real quiet since this dropped…”), clarinetists have been rushing to praise this musician’s ungodly talent.
As one fellow musician commented, “As a clarinet player I know how hard it is to switch from the lowest note to one of the highest. Amazing job,” another added, “As a clarinetist [with 12+] years of music experience I am deeply impressed. Tonguing those notes faster than the speed of light and holding your breath like it’s nothing. Absolutely flawless, that was phenomenal!” Yet more musical viewers revealed the true talent it takes to pull off a rendition like this, commenting, “Posture is very important, he’s got a great technique and you can tell when he’s getting serious.”
HD Tang has taken “Rush E” to unprecedented heights with his stunning clarinet rendition, captivating audiences worldwide. His extraordinary talent and precision breathe new life into this legendary meme. Music enthusiasts eager for more can explore further through the links below.