Composer

:

Edouard Lalo

Genre

:

Concerto

Style

:

Concerto

Compose Date

:

1879

Average_duration

:

31:58

Edouard Lalo's 'Concerto russe, Op. 29' is a three-movement concerto for violin and orchestra. It was composed in 1879 and premiered on February 7, 1880, in Paris, with the composer's friend and collaborator, the violinist Pablo de Sarasate, as the soloist. The first movement, marked Allegro non troppo, begins with a bold and dramatic orchestral introduction, followed by the solo violin's entrance with a lyrical and expressive melody. The movement features virtuosic passages for the soloist, as well as moments of dialogue between the violin and various sections of the orchestra. The movement ends with a fiery and energetic coda. The second movement, marked Scherzo, is a lively and playful dance in 6/8 time. The solo violin leads the way with a sprightly melody, while the orchestra provides a rhythmic accompaniment. The middle section of the movement features a more lyrical and expressive theme, before returning to the lively dance of the opening. The final movement, marked Allegro con fuoco, is a fast and energetic romp that showcases the soloist's technical prowess. The movement begins with a fiery orchestral introduction, before the solo violin enters with a virtuosic cadenza. The movement features a variety of themes and moods, including a lyrical and expressive second theme and a playful and dance-like third theme. The movement ends with a thrilling and triumphant coda. Overall, 'Concerto russe, Op. 29' is a virtuosic and expressive work that showcases Lalo's skill as a composer and his understanding of the capabilities of the violin. The work is characterized by its dramatic orchestration, lyrical melodies, and virtuosic passages for the soloist. It remains a popular and frequently performed work in the violin repertoire.

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