Presents
Louis Glass
String Sextet in G Major, Op.15
Louis Glass (1864-1936) was born in Copenhagen. He was almost an exact contemporary of Carl Nielsen and like Nielsen was a student of Niels Gade. However, Glass also studied at the Brussels Conservatory where he became enamored of the music of Cesar Franck and Anton Bruckner, both of whom stylistically influenced his writing. For several years, he was one of Denmark’s leading concert pianists until a paralysis in one arm made him retire from the stage. He then devoted himself primarily to composing. He composed in most genres and wrote several chamber music works of worth.
Glass’ Sextet in G Major, Op.15 dates from 1893. The powerful opening movement, Molto allegro marcato, begins in a rather turbulent fashion and starts off as a quick restless and thrusting march. Tonally, it is interesting that there is much, especially the treatment of the attractive second theme, which reminds one of early Nielsen. But in view of the fact that Nielsen had only just begun to compose, perhaps it might be that Nielsen was influenced, during this period, by Glass rather than the other way around. The coda is quite dramatic and exciting. The second movement, Andante con moto, begins in a quiet and reflective mood and, though it occasionally rises in volume with the promise of drama, remains primarily a peaceful idyll. The following Scherzo begins in the same turbulent and thrusting style as the first movement, however, almost immediately, Glass adds some quite original and exotic tonal color which creates an entirely different mood. The trio section provides excellent contrast and is full of pathos. The finale, Allegro giocoso, has none of the angst or anger of the earlier movements. Somewhat jolly, its use of syncopation is quite effective. There are quite a number of themes, including the main theme from the first movement, which one traverses before coming to the powerful conclusion.
Here is a very useful addition to the not overly large string sextet repertoire. Professionals and amateurs alike should find this sextet of interest. In addition, we are pleased to offer this Sextet in a version for 2 Violins, 2 Violas, Cello and Bass. Our bass part was made by Anthony Scelba, noted bass soloist, Professor of Music and Director of the Concert Artists Program of Kean University. In an effort to give bass players a chance to play many of the great works of the chamber music repertoire, Professor Scelba has made several highly acclaimed transcriptions, including one for the Schubert Quintet D.956, which has been recorded.
| (A) 2 Violins, 2 Violas & 2 Cellos-Parts | $39.95 |
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| (B) 2 Violins, 2 Violas & 2 Cellos-Parts & Score | $48.95 |
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| (C) 2 Violins, 2 Violas, Cello & Bass-Parts | $39.95 |
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| (D) 2 Violins, 2 Violas, Cello & Bass-Parts & Score | $48.95 |
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| (E) All Seven Parts | $46.95 |
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| (F) All Seven Parts & Score | $58.95 |
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