Carmen Fantasy

The Carmen Fantasy, Op. 25, written in 1883 by Pablo de Sarasate, is a violin fantasy on themes from the opera Carmen by Georges Bizet. The Carmen Fantasy is one of Sarasate's most notable works, and is often performed in violin contests. Because of its delicate techniques and sanguineous passion, it is considered to be one of the most challenging pieces for the violin. In technical terms, this composition is slightly more difficult than Sarasate... More

The Carmen Fantasy, Op. 25, written in 1883 by Pablo de Sarasate, is a violin fantasy on themes from the opera Carmen by Georges Bizet. The Carmen Fantasy is one of Sarasate's most notable works, and is often performed in violin contests. Because of its delicate techniques and sanguineous passion, it is considered to be one of the most challenging pieces for the violin. In technical terms, this composition is slightly more difficult than Sarasate's other virtuoso work Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs). The piece contains an adaptation of the Aragonaise, Habanera, an interlude, Seguidilla, and the Gypsy Dance. Scored for 2 flutes, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, 2 bassoons, 4 horns, 2 trumpets, 3 trombones, timpani, harp and strings.

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