To Hort Challenged: I have several clematis (alpina and the big-flowering kind) growing in part shade. (Alpinas and macropetalas in particular don't mind a bit of shade. Pale flowers on other types last longer and don't get washed out if kept out of direct sun.) However, they are growing in moist, alkaline soil. Any way you can add a bit of lime and compost, and keep the area well-watered?
To G: If you type "pruning clematis" as a "Google" search, you will find many, many references. Pruning largely depends on what kind of clematis you have. Here are three good sites for you to visit. They have detailed instructions; the third even has photos! Good luck.
http://www.gardenforum.demon.co.uk/clematis.htm
http://www.savvygardener.com/Features/clematis_pruning.html
http://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profiles0201/clematis_pruning.asp
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