Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky / Arr. Glen Tuomaala
Written in 1913 as an entry level piano piece.
48 measures in the written key of f minor (Aflat key signature).
Many opportunities for phrasing – that will also determine how fast you are going to take it. Conservative ranges and technique.
Yes, it sounds sad and that’s why it’s a unique piece.
I’ve played and conducted this arrangement with a large horn ensemble and it sounds fantastic (better when played in tune). Students seem to laugh the first time when they see the piece on their music stand; which is weird.
Of course he likely composed this piece in five minutes after his first cup of tea in the morning. That’s what blows me away. Just how awesome a composer he was. Am I jealous? Absolutely I am.
The composer’s notes explain “The little bird was a personage in his way, on terms of close friendship with the maiden, who kept him prisoner because she loved him so well, but now the sweet song is forever stilled; the cage is empty, and the heart of the little mistress is desolate.”
Grade 2
