Presents
Jean Philippe Rameau
Second Concert for String Sextet
The name Jean Philippe Rameau (1683-1764) is one of the most important composers of the Baroque era, although his music is rarely performed live anymore. He was known for his operas, his compositions for harpsichord and his book on harmony. Some of his works can sometimes be heard on CD.
The Second Concert for String Sextet is the second of a set of six, based on his Pieces de Clavecin, which were composed between 1724-1726. They were transcribed for three violins, viola and two cellos shortly after Rameau's death in 1768 by the French lawyer and composer Jacques Joseph Marie Decroix. A subsequent edition was made by Saint Saens in 1896. And it is in this version that they have survived.
It is in four movements. The first movement entitled La Laborde is named after Rameau's pupil Jean-Benjamin de Laborde, who later distinguished himself as a composer and writer. The second movement La Boucon was in honor of the then famous harpsichordist Anne-Jeanne Boucon (1708-1780). The third movement Rameau entitled L'Aga็ante and appears to be related to the French verb to irritate. Perhaps he thought the music would irritate the listener or player. The last two movements are minuets, graceful and elegant, though hardly music one could dance to. The first is in the major, the second in the minor.
Our edition is based on that of Saint Saens. Because sextets for three violins, viola and two cellos are rare, we have created a 2nd viola part in lieu of Violin III.
| (A) 3 Violins, Viola, & 2 Cellos-Parts | $19.95 |
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| (B) 3 Violins, Viola, & 2 Cellos-Parts & Score | $24.95 |
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| (C) 2 Violins, 2 Violas & 2 Cellos-Parts | $19.95 |
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| (D) 2 Violins, 2 Violas & 2 Cellos-Parts & Score | $24.95 |
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| (E) All Seven Parts | $24.95 |
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| (F) All Seven Parts & Score | $31.95 |
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