 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: Brian Peterson
Date: 2004-04-17 21:16
My son, an aspiring violist asked me if there were any orchestral pieces scored without violins. (Do you think he's a little envious?) Somewhere in my memory banks, I seem to recall that the Brahms second serenade fits the bill. Am I correct and if so, did Brahms ever give a reason for doing so?
Thanks.
Brian Peterson
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Author: GBK
Date: 2004-04-17 21:38
Brian ... Your memory is excellent. The Second Serenade (op. 16) is scored without the use of violins (trumpets and percussion are also absent).
This was actually one of Brahms' favorite works, as he often mentioned to friends.
The lack of violins, the violas as the highest string instrument, and the clarinets and bassoons in their low register gives this work a dark, pensive feeling ... GBK
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Author: Brian Peterson
Date: 2004-04-17 21:57
Thanks.
He takes great delight when the violins have to sit out. If he's going to continue though, he'll just have to get used to playing 2nd "fiddle".
BP
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Author: David Peacham
Date: 2004-04-18 00:18
I don't know this Serenade, but maybe it was this experience that led Brahms to omit violins from the first movement of his Requiem.
Your son might also enjoy Brandenburg 6, although it hardly qualifies as an orchestral piece. Two "viole de braccio" (violas), two viole de gamba, cello and continuo.
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If there are so many people on this board unwilling or unable to have a civil and balanced discussion about important issues, then I shan't bother to post here any more.
To the great relief of many of you, no doubt.
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