Presents
René de Boisdeffre
Sextet in B flat Major, Op.43
For Piano, 2 Violins, Viola, Violoncello and Bass (ad. libitum)
Boisdeffre’s Piano Sextet No.1 in B flat Major, Op.43, which was published in 1890, could perhaps also be styled as his Piano Quintet No.3. This is because the double-bass part is marked ‘ad libitum’, meaning that it is basically not treated as an individual part or line in the score. It either doubles the cello, an octave below or reinforces the pianist’s left hand. Contrast this with Schubert’s Trout Quintet in which the bass is treated as an independent part. The somewhat heavy and orchestral sounding opening movement, Allegro deciso, is tuneful with quite good rhythmic and melodic contrast between the first and second themes. The second-movement, Scherzo, allegro grazioso, is altogether lighter. There are two trios, the first is somewhat abrasive providing a good contrast with the elegant Scherzo, while the second is more lyrical and also slower than the Scherzo and first trio. In the dramatic and tragic-sounding third movement, Andante sostenuto, has a song-like main theme and two very attractive chorale-like sections. The finale, Allegro con brio, has for its main theme a march-like subject which the music a martial quality which also feels a bit orchestral.
René de Boisdeffre (1838-1906) was born in the French village of Vesoul. He came from a distinguished military family and moved to Paris at the age of four when his father, at that time a captain in the army, was transferred. His parents did not allow him to enter the Paris Conservatory but he received private piano and composition lessons from Charles Wagner and later from the respected French composer and professor at the Conservatory Auguste Barbereau. These came to an end when Saint Saens warned him away from Barbereau and briefly took the aspiring composer under his wings. Of independent means, he was able to devote himself to composition. He was especially fond of the genre of chamber music writing several trios, quartets and quintets, all with piano, as well as a number of instrumental pieces.
Parts: $44.95
