The Carnival of Venice
Composer: Julius Benedict
Arranger: Jean-Baptiste Arban Adapted by: Johnnie Vinson Publisher: Hal Leonard Length: ca. 4:00 Audio
Possible Teaching Concepts
Program Notes
Arban's variations on the Italian folksong Carnival of Venice is one of the great showpieces for cornet and trumpet. This arrangement for younger players has been somewhat simplified and shortened while retaining much of the spirit and flair of Arban's original version. Along with the usual solo part for trumpet (or cornet), solo parts are also included for flute/xylophone, baritone/trombone and tuba. |
Potential Challenges for a Young Ensemble
As is to be expected, the soloist has the most challenges and the most grueling technical workout. The ensemble, however, does not get to just sit back and relax. Much of the accompanying lines are triplet off-beats, repeating ad infinitum; this could be challenging for young players not accustomed to this task. When the soloist takes a break, everyone else is given chance to demonstrate their facility. The tempi are pretty slow but, with the 6/8 time signature and the inherent challenges this brings to a young band, some of the rhythms may demand a good deal of time to learn. There are, thankfully, only a handful of measures that will take any substantial work for the accompaniment; once learned the rest of the piece will fall, relatively easily, into place as variations on those learned. There are many changing articulations, often within a quick passage, which sometimes vary even within a single beat. This, coupled with a saturation of dynamic markings, may prove a tall order for young players. The ranges, across the band, are pleasantly limited – most students playing for more than a year or two should be comfortable playing these parts. This will also help make learning the complex rhythms and syncing these up with the dynamics and articulations a more manageable task. As one of the most recognizable tunes in our solo literature, this is a fantastic piece to show off an outstanding student, alumni or guest artist. And, with the flexibility to choose from many soloist options, this could become a spring or pops concert tradition. Definitely a crowd pleaser and fun for the students, too! |