Presents
Théodore Dubois
Two Pieces in Canonical Form for Oboe, Cello and Piano
Théodore Dubois (1837-1924) along with Camille Saint Saëns is one of the great names of the French romantic movement. Like Saint Saëns he eschewed impressionism. His music is characterized by, logic, clarity, fine melody, drama and a refined sense of taste. It is finely crafted and clearly shows that he was a gifted melodist. Truly, it is a pity his chamber music is unknown because it is absolutely first rate.
The Two Pieces for Oboe, Cello and Piano were dedicated to two leading French players and fellow professors at the Paris Conservatory where Dubois taught. The first was the Oboe virtuoso Georges Gillet and the second was the cello virtuoso Jules Delsart. While the work was published in 1900, it was probably composed some years before as Delsart died in 1900. As the title suggestions, each piece is written in canonical form. In both movements, the oboe leads and the cello follows. The charming first movement, Adagio molto espressivo, is calm and unhurried. The graceful and elegant second movement, Allegretto grazioso, flows along effortlessly and gently.
This music combines sweetness, with buoyancy as well as sentiment. While meant to be performed together where they can serve as a short program selection between two larger ones at a concert, either one can make a fine encore. In addition, amateurs will certainly enjoy this work as it is not at all difficult to play.
Parts: $10.95
