ballet for solo violin and strings
piano reduction available
The “Tombeau” commemorates the life of Pierre Beauchamp (1636-1705), French dancing master at Versailles who taught Louis XIV. Beauchamp devised a system of footwork notation which makes it possible to reconstruct his choreographies. As Baroque dance was often only accompanied by solo violin, the instrument is featured in almost concerto-like fashion. Overflowing with Baroque dance rhythms and sonorous harmonies associated with the French court, the impetus for this piece was to write a ballet of simple and accessible beauty.
Length
30 min
Orchestration
Violin I
Violin II
Viola
Cello
Contrabass
Solo
Violin