Vocalise, op. 34/14, arranged for string quartet; Sergei Rachmaninoff (International)

Vocalise, Op.34, No. 14 for string quartet by Sergei Rachmaninoff

Includes parts and score. Edited and arranged by Graham Bastable. Published by International

Sergei Rachmaninoff (1873-1943) was the last major Russian Romantic composer, writing in the tradition of Tchaikovsky and Rimsky-Korsakov and forming an idiomatic style characterized by tuneful melodies and richly scored, full harmonies. He was one of the foremost virtuoso pianists of his time, which is often reflected in his writing. He wrote in a variety of forms, though his best known for his piano concertos and solo piano works.

Rachmaninoff's Vocalise, Op.34/14 is a wordless vocal piece that comes from a 1915 collection of 14 songs; it quickly became popular as a standalone instrumental work in many arrangements. It is one of his most recognizable melodies, characterized by gentle lyricism and wistful melancholy, now presented in this beautiful new arrangement for string quartet. Includes parts and score. Early advanced level, Grade 4.