Staff Pick
“Unusual repertoire”
This is a lovely book of French music skilfully arranged by Hywel Davies. Well-known gems such as the Libera Me from Faure's Requiem and the main theme from Danse Macabre by Saint-Saens sit next to less familiar pieces by Florence Schmitt and Guy Ropartz. Add in Poulenc, Debussy and Ibert and you have a real tour round the styles of French music in the 20th century. You even get an arrangement of a song made famous by Edith Piaf! Some of the pieces are really quirky and there's somthing for everyone. It's quite expensive but really worth the investment.
Music that is incontrovertibly 'French'. Immediately recognisable but at the same time impossible to define. This volume contains a selection of some of the best of this music.
Intended to intermediate-level players, these arrangements give performers an opportunity to get to know the essence of French style, at once delicate and invigorating, through the colours and perfumes of the music of Debussy, Poulenc, Saint-Saens, Milhaud and Offenbach.
Difficulty guide: 4-5
Difficulty level, roughly compared to ABRSM exam grades. 0 is total beginner, 9 is advanced (beyond grade 8).
