Symphonie Espagnole

The Symphonie Espagnole is a work for violin and orchestra by Edouard Lalo, his Opus 21 in D minor. Written in 1874 for violinist Pablo de Sarasate, it was premiered in Paris, France in February of 1875.

Though officially a symphony (the name translates as "Spanish Symphony") (see also Sinfonia concertante), it is considered a violin concerto by musicians today. The piece has Spanish motifs throughout, and launched a period when Spanish-themed music came into vogue (Georges Bizet's opera Carmen premiered a month after Symphonie Espagnole did). The Symphonie Espagnole is one of Lalo's two most often played works (often referred to in classical circles simply as "The Lalo"), the other being his cello concerto. His "official" Concerto in F for violin, Opus 20, and his Symphony in G minor for orchestra without solo instruments, written thirteen years later, are neither performed nor recorded as often.

Recording

Édouard Lalo: Symphonie Espagnole for violin and orchestra, op.21

• 1. Allegro non troppo
• 2. Scherzando: Allegro molto
• 3. Intermezzo: Allegro non troppo
• 4. Andante
• 5. Rondo: Allegro

See also

• Symphonie Espagnole: Free scores at the International Music Score Library Project.