Symphonie Espagnole for violin and piano by Edouard Lalo
Edited by Zino Francescatti. Published by International
Edouard Lalo (1823-92) was a French composer whose music was known for its strong melodicism, instrumental color, and progressive, Germanic approach to form and harmony. His violin concerto ''Symphonie Espagnole'', Op.21 (Spanish Symphony, 1874) launched a craze for Spanish-themed classical music in France. Written for Pablo de Sarasate, it balances serious, passionate drama with ingratiating showmanship, all the while displaying consummate virtuosity. It had a considerable impact, not least on Tchaikovsky, who was inspired by it to write his own violin concerto. Today, it enjoys a firm place in the standard repertory and is his best-known work. Master level, Grade 6.
