Classique
Description :
Victor Caussinus wrote two versions of Air varié, a concertante piece for ophicleide and orchestra: one for an instrument in C and symphonic orchestra, the other one for an instrument in B b and concert band. The piece belongs to the theme and variation genre. After an andante Introduction in minor, the theme is stated and followed by three variations and a Polacca. After a brief return of the Andante, the piece ends with a virtuoso Finale.
The arrangement for euphonium or saxhorn and piano is adapted from the original manuscript of the concert band version, the instrumentation of which calls for: "1 piccolo in D b, 1 soprano clarinet in E b, 4 clarinets in B b (including one solo), 2 bassoons, 2 cornets in A b, 2 horns in E b, 2 horns in B b, 2 trumpets in E b, 3 trombones, 1 ophicleide in B b”.