SKU: A0.549582

Duration: ca. 2:17 Score: 10 pages, solo part: 2 pages, piano part: 5 pages. A proven audience pleaser - perfect for a recital encore!

Grieg Background

In the first place, Edvard Grieg (1843 –1907) was a Norwegian composer as well as a concert pianist. As a matter of fact, most music historians consider him one of the foremost Romantic era composers. Consequently, his music is part of the international standard classical repertoire. Grieg moreover used Norwegian folk music in his own compositions.  Consequently, he ushered Norwegian music to transnational consciousness. Furthermore, he forged a national musical identity for Norway. It is important to realize that he did this in a manner similar to Jean Sibelius in Finland, and BedÅ™ich Smetana in Bohemia.

Legacy

Grieg is especially celebrated in the city of Bergen. For example, the city has erected numerous statues depicting Grieg. Specifically, the city has named a concert hall (Grieg Hall), a music school (Grieg Academy) and a professional choir (Edvard Grieg Kor) after him. As a matter of fact, there is also a museum located at his former home in Troldhaugen.

Peer Gynt Suite No. 1 (Op. 46)

Grieg wrote incidental music for the purpose of illustrating a play by Ibsen known as Peer Gynt. The play includes, in particular, the famous selection entitled, In the Hall of the Mountain King. In this composition, Grieg indeed depicts the exploits of the scoundrel, Peer Gynt. In one famous episode, for example, Peer steals a bride at her wedding. For this reason, the people chase him, but soon Peer falls, thereupon striking his skull on a boulder. He wakens forthwith in a highland bounded by angry gnomes. Consequently, the music of In the Hall of the Mountain King represents the mad gnomes taunting Peer. Therefore, each time the theme repeats it gets louder and faster. In the end, Peer surprisingly escapes from the mountain.

Holberg Suite and Misc. Summary

It must be remembered that Grieg originally wrote his Holberg Suite for the piano. In other words, he only later arranged it for strings. Further, Grieg composed by and large many songs with lyrics by famous writers such as Heine, Goethe, Ibsen, Hans Christian Andersen, Rudyard Kipling, and others. On balance, Norwegian pianist Eva Knardahl recorded altogether Grieg’s whole piano catalog on LP in 1980. These recordings were released again on CD in 2006. In any event, Grieg himself performed and recorded the bulk of these pieces toward the end of his life.

SKU: A0.549690

Duration: ca. 1:42, 52 measures, Score: 7 pages, solo part: 2 pages, piano part: 4 pages. A popular Christmas favorite from Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite.

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Tchaikovsky is probably the most popular of the great composers in America. His music certainly appeals to musicians. Likewise, it appeals even to folks who don’t normally listen to serious music. This is probably because of his most noteworthy melodies. Above all, he writes with great emotion. This certainly makes a most noteworthy if not an unforgettable impact.

Education

First of all, He attended classes at the Russian Musical Society. Even more, He also attended the St. Petersburg Conservatory. There he studied music theory with Nikolai Zaremba. He also consequently studied composition with Anton Rubenstein. It seems like Rubenstein came under criticism from a group of Russian composers known as the Five.

The Five

The Five certainly rejected Western musical influences. They rather sought to use elements from Russian music. They furthermore wanted to use more exotic musical materials.

Western Techniques

More than other Russian composers, Tchaikovsky studied modern Western music. He certainly develops his music like the European masters. So, rather than repeating a motive, he moves to a new key. He then introduces a different theme in the new key. Hence, he maintained his independence from the Five. Even more, he became the first Russian composer of international stature.

Influences

Tchaikovsky was probably influenced in his ballet scoring by Léo Delibes. Richard Wagner influenced his symphonic writing. Tchaikovsky’s most famous works include the 1812 Overture, The Nutcracker Suite, and Swan Lake. Also famous are the Violin Concerto in D and the six symphonies. The greatest of the six symphonies may be No. 6, the Pathétique.

Nutcracker Suite, Op. 71a

The Nutcracker Suite is a ballet that was performed for the first time in December 1892 in St. Petersburg. To begin with, the original ballet failed to attract a positive reception. However, the ballet suite became probably one of the most popular of all of Tchaikovsky’s works. The ballet suite became even more famous in the 1960s. It is now performed all over the world, particularly during the Christmas season.

SKU: A0.796122

This piece is part of a 12 song collection available for just $9.99 (or only $0.83 per song)! Find the full collection for your instrument by going to…

https://sites.google.com/view/cpesther/sheetmusic/boughs-of-holly

-or-

https://www.sheetmusicplus.com/search?Ntt=Classic+Christmas+Songs+-+The+%22Boughs+of+Holly%22+Series

You can also search Sheet Music Plus for Classic Christmas Songs - The Boughs of Holly Collection.

All of these pieces are also completely compatible with any others in the series, so you can build your own instrumentation without worrying about whether the music will work together!

SKU: A0.876471

THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio The Beethoven Duets by Joe Procopio is a collection of duets that artist -composer Joe Procopio has adapted and arranged from the 9 Scherzi found in Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9 Symphonies. These duets are the first of their kind in history making them noteworthy, unique and valuable. Each Scherzo is published not only for Clarinet but also for many other orchestral instruments. They are published individually for each instrument; in a Three Volume Collection with 3 Scherzi in each volume; and in a Complete Collection containing all three volumes. They are also available as a CD. Volume One has Scherzo No.1, Scherzo No. 2 and Scherzo No.3. Volume Two has Scherzo No.4, Scherzo No 5 and Scherzo No.6. Volume Three has Scherzo No.7, Scherzo No.8 and Scherzo No.9. The Complete Collection has all 3 Volumes for each instrument with all 9 Scherzi. What’s more they will soon be published in the Procopio PlayAlong Music Program. This is an exclusive MP3 music audio program personally designed and developed in which Player 1 plays along with a music audio track for Player 2. To be sure, The Beethoven Scherzi Duets for Clarinet are a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. It is my deep felt personal belief that these Scherzi will bring you great pleasure and long lasting satisfaction. Joe Procopio AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio Because of the complexities, range and sonorities inherent in all of the Beethoven Symphonies, it may seem impossible to transcribe any one movement as a duet that is true to the composer. Nevertheless, I believe these duets contain the heart, soul and essence of Beethoven’s melodies, rhythms and expressions; even though these works are tiny when they are compared to the Master’s great musical creations which have no equal. In fact, there is no comparison. However, my sincere hope is that since I have rendered some of Beethoven’s music as duets, his music is now more readily available to all permitting a greater number of musicians and all the people who hear their performances to come to know and love a bit of the world’s most valuable, breathtaking and beautiful music. In truth, Beethoven’s music has stood the test of time. He astonished people in his day whenever he performed his music or had his music played. He still does today. To be sure, his music has enhanced and enriched the lives of many of us for over 200 years. In performing and listening to these Scherzi you will find the whole of each work a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. Few composers have been able to write down on paper music of such incredible beauty that it reflects the awesome splendor of God’s creation. What comes to mind immediately is Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony No. 6. It has been said, that much of his music mirrors not only the magnificence of God’s creation but also the radiance of God the Creator himself. In any event, this music is simply amazing and awe-inspiring. A joy to listen to and to play. I know and can safely say without any hesitation or reservations that this collection will bring you much enjoyment.

SKU: A0.876470

THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio The Beethoven Duets by Joe Procopio is a collection of duets that artist -composer Joe Procopio has adapted and arranged from the 9 Scherzi found in Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9 Symphonies. These duets are the first of their kind in history making them noteworthy, unique and valuable. Each Scherzo is published not only for Clarinet but also for many other orchestral instruments. They are published individually for each instrument; in a Three Volume Collection with 3 Scherzi in each volume; and in a Complete Collection containing all three volumes. They are also available as a CD. Volume One has Scherzo No.1, Scherzo No. 2 and Scherzo No.3. Volume Two has Scherzo No.4, Scherzo No 5 and Scherzo No.6. Volume Three has Scherzo No.7, Scherzo No.8 and Scherzo No.9. The Complete Collection has all 3 Volumes for each instrument with all 9 Scherzi. What’s more they will soon be published in the Procopio PlayAlong Music Program. This is an exclusive MP3 music audio program personally designed and developed in which Player 1 plays along with a music audio track for Player 2. To be sure, The Beethoven Scherzi Duets for Clarinet are a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. It is my deep felt personal belief that these Scherzi will bring you great pleasure and long lasting satisfaction. Joe Procopio AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio Because of the complexities, range and sonorities inherent in all of the Beethoven Symphonies, it may seem impossible to transcribe any one movement as a duet that is true to the composer. Nevertheless, I believe these duets contain the heart, soul and essence of Beethoven’s melodies, rhythms and expressions; even though these works are tiny when they are compared to the Master’s great musical creations which have no equal. In fact, there is no comparison. However, my sincere hope is that since I have rendered some of Beethoven’s music as duets, his music is now more readily available to all permitting a greater number of musicians and all the people who hear their performances to come to know and love a bit of the world’s most valuable, breathtaking and beautiful music. In truth, Beethoven’s music has stood the test of time. He astonished people in his day whenever he performed his music or had his music played. He still does today. To be sure, his music has enhanced and enriched the lives of many of us for over 200 years. In performing and listening to these Scherzi you will find the whole of each work a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. Few composers have been able to write down on paper music of such incredible beauty that it reflects the awesome splendor of God’s creation. What comes to mind immediately is Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony No. 6. It has been said, that much of his music mirrors not only the magnificence of God’s creation but also the radiance of God the Creator himself. In any event, this music is simply amazing and awe-inspiring. A joy to listen to and to play. I know and can safely say without any hesitation or reservations that this collection will bring you much enjoyment.

SKU: A0.876472

THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio The Beethoven Duets by Joe Procopio is a collection of duets that artist -composer Joe Procopio has adapted and arranged from the 9 Scherzi found in Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9 Symphonies. These duets are the first of their kind in history making them noteworthy, unique and valuable. Each Scherzo is published not only for Clarinet but also for many other orchestral instruments. They are published individually for each instrument; in a Three Volume Collection with 3 Scherzi in each volume; and in a Complete Collection containing all three volumes. They are also available as a CD. Volume One has Scherzo No.1, Scherzo No. 2 and Scherzo No.3. Volume Two has Scherzo No.4, Scherzo No 5 and Scherzo No.6. Volume Three has Scherzo No.7, Scherzo No.8 and Scherzo No.9. The Complete Collection has all 3 Volumes for each instrument with all 9 Scherzi. What’s more they will soon be published in the Procopio PlayAlong Music Program. This is an exclusive MP3 music audio program personally designed and developed in which Player 1 plays along with a music audio track for Player 2. To be sure, The Beethoven Scherzi Duets for Clarinet are a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. It is my deep felt personal belief that these Scherzi will bring you great pleasure and long lasting satisfaction. Joe Procopio AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio Because of the complexities, range and sonorities inherent in all of the Beethoven Symphonies, it may seem impossible to transcribe any one movement as a duet that is true to the composer. Nevertheless, I believe these duets contain the heart, soul and essence of Beethoven’s melodies, rhythms and expressions; even though these works are tiny when they are compared to the Master’s great musical creations which have no equal. In fact, there is no comparison. However, my sincere hope is that since I have rendered some of Beethoven’s music as duets, his music is now more readily available to all permitting a greater number of musicians and all the people who hear their performances to come to know and love a bit of the world’s most valuable, breathtaking and beautiful music. In truth, Beethoven’s music has stood the test of time. He astonished people in his day whenever he performed his music or had his music played. He still does today. To be sure, his music has enhanced and enriched the lives of many of us for over 200 years. In performing and listening to these Scherzi you will find the whole of each work a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. Few composers have been able to write down on paper music of such incredible beauty that it reflects the awesome splendor of God’s creation. What comes to mind immediately is Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony No. 6. It has been said, that much of his music mirrors not only the magnificence of God’s creation but also the radiance of God the Creator himself. In any event, this music is simply amazing and awe-inspiring. A joy to listen to and to play. I know and can safely say without any hesitation or reservations that this collection will bring you much enjoyment.

SKU: A0.876475

THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio The Beethoven Duets by Joe Procopio is a collection of duets that artist -composer Joe Procopio has adapted and arranged from the 9 Scherzi found in Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9 Symphonies. These duets are the first of their kind in history making them noteworthy, unique and valuable. Each Scherzo is published not only for Clarinet but also for many other orchestral instruments. They are published individually for each instrument; in a Three Volume Collection with 3 Scherzi in each volume; and in a Complete Collection containing all three volumes. They are also available as a CD. Volume One has Scherzo No.1, Scherzo No. 2 and Scherzo No.3. Volume Two has Scherzo No.4, Scherzo No 5 and Scherzo No.6. Volume Three has Scherzo No.7, Scherzo No.8 and Scherzo No.9. The Complete Collection has all 3 Volumes for each instrument with all 9 Scherzi. What’s more they will soon be published in the Procopio PlayAlong Music Program. This is an exclusive MP3 music audio program personally designed and developed in which Player 1 plays along with a music audio track for Player 2. To be sure, The Beethoven Scherzi Duets for Clarinet are a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. It is my deep felt personal belief that these Scherzi will bring you great pleasure and long lasting satisfaction. Joe Procopio AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio Because of the complexities, range and sonorities inherent in all of the Beethoven Symphonies, it may seem impossible to transcribe any one movement as a duet that is true to the composer. Nevertheless, I believe these duets contain the heart, soul and essence of Beethoven’s melodies, rhythms and expressions; even though these works are tiny when they are compared to the Master’s great musical creations which have no equal. In fact, there is no comparison. However, my sincere hope is that since I have rendered some of Beethoven’s music as duets, his music is now more readily available to all permitting a greater number of musicians and all the people who hear their performances to come to know and love a bit of the world’s most valuable, breathtaking and beautiful music. In truth, Beethoven’s music has stood the test of time. He astonished people in his day whenever he performed his music or had his music played. He still does today. To be sure, his music has enhanced and enriched the lives of many of us for over 200 years. In performing and listening to these Scherzi you will find the whole of each work a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. Few composers have been able to write down on paper music of such incredible beauty that it reflects the awesome splendor of God’s creation. What comes to mind immediately is Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony No. 6. It has been said, that much of his music mirrors not only the magnificence of God’s creation but also the radiance of God the Creator himself. In any event, this music is simply amazing and awe-inspiring. A joy to listen to and to play. I know and can safely say without any hesitation or reservations that this collection will bring you much enjoyment.

SKU: A0.876474

THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio The Beethoven Duets by Joe Procopio is a collection of duets that artist -composer Joe Procopio has adapted and arranged from the 9 Scherzi found in Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9 Symphonies. These duets are the first of their kind in history making them noteworthy, unique and valuable. Each Scherzo is published not only for Clarinet but also for many other orchestral instruments. They are published individually for each instrument; in a Three Volume Collection with 3 Scherzi in each volume; and in a Complete Collection containing all three volumes. They are also available as a CD. Volume One has Scherzo No.1, Scherzo No. 2 and Scherzo No.3. Volume Two has Scherzo No.4, Scherzo No 5 and Scherzo No.6. Volume Three has Scherzo No.7, Scherzo No.8 and Scherzo No.9. The Complete Collection has all 3 Volumes for each instrument with all 9 Scherzi. What’s more they will soon be published in the Procopio PlayAlong Music Program. This is an exclusive MP3 music audio program personally designed and developed in which Player 1 plays along with a music audio track for Player 2. To be sure, The Beethoven Scherzi Duets for Clarinet are a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. It is my deep felt personal belief that these Scherzi will bring you great pleasure and long lasting satisfaction. Joe Procopio AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio Because of the complexities, range and sonorities inherent in all of the Beethoven Symphonies, it may seem impossible to transcribe any one movement as a duet that is true to the composer. Nevertheless, I believe these duets contain the heart, soul and essence of Beethoven’s melodies, rhythms and expressions; even though these works are tiny when they are compared to the Master’s great musical creations which have no equal. In fact, there is no comparison. However, my sincere hope is that since I have rendered some of Beethoven’s music as duets, his music is now more readily available to all permitting a greater number of musicians and all the people who hear their performances to come to know and love a bit of the world’s most valuable, breathtaking and beautiful music. In truth, Beethoven’s music has stood the test of time. He astonished people in his day whenever he performed his music or had his music played. He still does today. To be sure, his music has enhanced and enriched the lives of many of us for over 200 years. In performing and listening to these Scherzi you will find the whole of each work a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. Few composers have been able to write down on paper music of such incredible beauty that it reflects the awesome splendor of God’s creation. What comes to mind immediately is Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony No. 6. It has been said, that much of his music mirrors not only the magnificence of God’s creation but also the radiance of God the Creator himself. In any event, this music is simply amazing and awe-inspiring. A joy to listen to and to play. I know and can safely say without any hesitation or reservations that this collection will bring you much enjoyment.

SKU: A0.876480

THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio The Beethoven Duets by Joe Procopio is a collection of duets that artist -composer Joe Procopio has adapted and arranged from the 9 Scherzi found in Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9 Symphonies. These duets are the first of their kind in history making them noteworthy, unique and valuable. Each Scherzo is published not only for Clarinet but also for many other orchestral instruments. They are published individually for each instrument; in a Three Volume Collection with 3 Scherzi in each volume; and in a Complete Collection containing all three volumes. They are also available as a CD. Volume One has Scherzo No.1, Scherzo No. 2 and Scherzo No.3. Volume Two has Scherzo No.4, Scherzo No 5 and Scherzo No.6. Volume Three has Scherzo No.7, Scherzo No.8 and Scherzo No.9. The Complete Collection has all 3 Volumes for each instrument with all 9 Scherzi. What’s more they will soon be published in the Procopio PlayAlong Music Program. This is an exclusive MP3 music audio program personally designed and developed in which Player 1 plays along with a music audio track for Player 2. To be sure, The Beethoven Scherzi Duets for Clarinet are a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. It is my deep felt personal belief that these Scherzi will bring you great pleasure and long lasting satisfaction. Joe Procopio AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio Because of the complexities, range and sonorities inherent in all of the Beethoven Symphonies, it may seem impossible to transcribe any one movement as a duet that is true to the composer. Nevertheless, I believe these duets contain the heart, soul and essence of Beethoven’s melodies, rhythms and expressions; even though these works are tiny when they are compared to the Master’s great musical creations which have no equal. In fact, there is no comparison. However, my sincere hope is that since I have rendered some of Beethoven’s music as duets, his music is now more readily available to all permitting a greater number of musicians and all the people who hear their performances to come to know and love a bit of the world’s most valuable, breathtaking and beautiful music. In truth, Beethoven’s music has stood the test of time. He astonished people in his day whenever he performed his music or had his music played. He still does today. To be sure, his music has enhanced and enriched the lives of many of us for over 200 years. In performing and listening to these Scherzi you will find the whole of each work a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. Few composers have been able to write down on paper music of such incredible beauty that it reflects the awesome splendor of God’s creation. What comes to mind immediately is Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony No. 6. It has been said, that much of his music mirrors not only the magnificence of God’s creation but also the radiance of God the Creator himself. In any event, this music is simply amazing and awe-inspiring. A joy to listen to and to play. I know and can safely say without any hesitation or reservations that this collection will bring you much enjoyment.

SKU: A0.876473

THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio The Beethoven Duets by Joe Procopio is a collection of duets that artist -composer Joe Procopio has adapted and arranged from the 9 Scherzi found in Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9 Symphonies. These duets are the first of their kind in history making them noteworthy, unique and valuable. Each Scherzo is published not only for Clarinet but also for many other orchestral instruments. They are published individually for each instrument; in a Three Volume Collection with 3 Scherzi in each volume; and in a Complete Collection containing all three volumes. They are also available as a CD. Volume One has Scherzo No.1, Scherzo No. 2 and Scherzo No.3. Volume Two has Scherzo No.4, Scherzo No 5 and Scherzo No.6. Volume Three has Scherzo No.7, Scherzo No.8 and Scherzo No.9. The Complete Collection has all 3 Volumes for each instrument with all 9 Scherzi. What’s more they will soon be published in the Procopio PlayAlong Music Program. This is an exclusive MP3 music audio program personally designed and developed in which Player 1 plays along with a music audio track for Player 2. To be sure, The Beethoven Scherzi Duets for Clarinet are a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. It is my deep felt personal belief that these Scherzi will bring you great pleasure and long lasting satisfaction. Joe Procopio AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio Because of the complexities, range and sonorities inherent in all of the Beethoven Symphonies, it may seem impossible to transcribe any one movement as a duet that is true to the composer. Nevertheless, I believe these duets contain the heart, soul and essence of Beethoven’s melodies, rhythms and expressions; even though these works are tiny when they are compared to the Master’s great musical creations which have no equal. In fact, there is no comparison. However, my sincere hope is that since I have rendered some of Beethoven’s music as duets, his music is now more readily available to all permitting a greater number of musicians and all the people who hear their performances to come to know and love a bit of the world’s most valuable, breathtaking and beautiful music. In truth, Beethoven’s music has stood the test of time. He astonished people in his day whenever he performed his music or had his music played. He still does today. To be sure, his music has enhanced and enriched the lives of many of us for over 200 years. In performing and listening to these Scherzi you will find the whole of each work a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. Few composers have been able to write down on paper music of such incredible beauty that it reflects the awesome splendor of God’s creation. What comes to mind immediately is Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony No. 6. It has been said, that much of his music mirrors not only the magnificence of God’s creation but also the radiance of God the Creator himself. In any event, this music is simply amazing and awe-inspiring. A joy to listen to and to play. I know and can safely say without any hesitation or reservations that this collection will bring you much enjoyment.

SKU: A0.876476

THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio The Beethoven Duets by Joe Procopio is a collection of duets that artist -composer Joe Procopio has adapted and arranged from the 9 Scherzi found in Ludwig van Beethoven’s 9 Symphonies. These duets are the first of their kind in history making them noteworthy, unique and valuable. Each Scherzo is published not only for Clarinet but also for many other orchestral instruments. They are published individually for each instrument; in a Three Volume Collection with 3 Scherzi in each volume; and in a Complete Collection containing all three volumes. They are also available as a CD. Volume One has Scherzo No.1, Scherzo No. 2 and Scherzo No.3. Volume Two has Scherzo No.4, Scherzo No 5 and Scherzo No.6. Volume Three has Scherzo No.7, Scherzo No.8 and Scherzo No.9. The Complete Collection has all 3 Volumes for each instrument with all 9 Scherzi. What’s more they will soon be published in the Procopio PlayAlong Music Program. This is an exclusive MP3 music audio program personally designed and developed in which Player 1 plays along with a music audio track for Player 2. To be sure, The Beethoven Scherzi Duets for Clarinet are a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. It is my deep felt personal belief that these Scherzi will bring you great pleasure and long lasting satisfaction. Joe Procopio AN INTRODUCTION TO THE BEETHOVEN DUETS By Joe Procopio Because of the complexities, range and sonorities inherent in all of the Beethoven Symphonies, it may seem impossible to transcribe any one movement as a duet that is true to the composer. Nevertheless, I believe these duets contain the heart, soul and essence of Beethoven’s melodies, rhythms and expressions; even though these works are tiny when they are compared to the Master’s great musical creations which have no equal. In fact, there is no comparison. However, my sincere hope is that since I have rendered some of Beethoven’s music as duets, his music is now more readily available to all permitting a greater number of musicians and all the people who hear their performances to come to know and love a bit of the world’s most valuable, breathtaking and beautiful music. In truth, Beethoven’s music has stood the test of time. He astonished people in his day whenever he performed his music or had his music played. He still does today. To be sure, his music has enhanced and enriched the lives of many of us for over 200 years. In performing and listening to these Scherzi you will find the whole of each work a marvel of Beethoven’s skill with sections reaching the sublime. Few composers have been able to write down on paper music of such incredible beauty that it reflects the awesome splendor of God’s creation. What comes to mind immediately is Beethoven’s Pastoral Symphony No. 6. It has been said, that much of his music mirrors not only the magnificence of God’s creation but also the radiance of God the Creator himself. In any event, this music is simply amazing and awe-inspiring. A joy to listen to and to play. I know and can safely say without any hesitation or reservations that this collection will bring you much enjoyment.

SKU: A0.549540

Duration: ca. 3:40, Score: 5 pages, solo part: 2 pages, piano part: 3 pages. Super-famous instantly recognizable tune, not very difficult - suitable for a recital, funeral or church meditation.

Grieg Background

In the first place, Edvard Grieg (1843 –1907) was a Norwegian composer as well as a concert pianist. As a matter of fact, most music historians consider him one of the foremost Romantic era composers. Consequently, his music is part of the international standard classical repertoire. Grieg moreover used Norwegian folk music in his own compositions.  Consequently, he ushered Norwegian music to transnational consciousness. Furthermore, he forged a national musical identity for Norway. It is important to realize that he did this in a manner similar to Jean Sibelius in Finland, and BedÅ™ich Smetana in Bohemia.

Legacy

Grieg is especially celebrated in the city of Bergen. For example, the city has erected numerous statues depicting Grieg. Specifically, the city has named a concert hall (Grieg Hall), a music school (Grieg Academy) and a professional choir (Edvard Grieg Kor) after him. As a matter of fact, there is also a museum located at his former home in Troldhaugen.

Peer Gynt Suite No. 1 (Op. 46)

Grieg wrote incidental music for the purpose of illustrating a play by Ibsen known as Peer Gynt. The play includes, in particular, the famous selection entitled, In the Hall of the Mountain King. In this composition, Grieg indeed depicts the exploits of the scoundrel, Peer Gynt. In one famous episode, for example, Peer steals a bride at her wedding. For this reason, the people chase him, but soon Peer falls, thereupon striking his skull on a boulder. He wakens forthwith in a highland bounded by angry gnomes. Consequently, the music of In the Hall of the Mountain King represents the mad gnomes taunting Peer. Therefore, each time the theme repeats it gets louder and faster. In the end, Peer surprisingly escapes from the mountain.

Holberg Suite and Misc. Summary

It must be remembered that Grieg originally wrote his Holberg Suite for the piano. In other words, he only later arranged it for strings. Further, Grieg composed by and large many songs with lyrics by famous writers such as Heine, Goethe, Ibsen, Hans Christian Andersen, Rudyard Kipling, and others. On balance, Norwegian pianist Eva Knardahl recorded altogether Grieg’s whole piano catalog on LP in 1980. These recordings were released again on CD in 2006. In any event, Grieg himself performed and recorded the bulk of these pieces toward the end of his life.