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String Orchestra - Advanced Intermediate - Digital Download
Composed by Claude Debussy (1862-1918). Arranged by Martin Lass.

Genre: Classical (20th Century, Impressionistic).

Score, Set of Parts. 16 pages.

Published by MA Lass & I Lass

In this Level 3.5 (Intermediate/Advanced) String Orchestra arrangement, Martin Lass has arranged Claude Debussy's piano piece, "Bruyères," from his piano Preludes, Book 2.

Debussy's Preludes are 24 character pieces for solo piano, divided into two sets. Interestingly, the titles of the pieces are written at the end of each piece, the composer apparently wishing the player and listener to experience the music without being influenced by the titles beforehand.

Ensemble work is the main challenge in this arrangement, as the piece is not meant to be played metronomically. Some tempo indications are given, but there is substantial room for more rubato. The YouTube video is instructive in this.

The other main challenge is in achieving the complex dynamics, which aim to ensure that the main melodies, which are often passed between instruments, are never lost in the texture.

Players should pay close attention to divisi and unison passages, as these change frequently.

Some minor changes have been made to the original music as it appears for piano to accommodate clarity and articulation of the thematic material when transcribed for strings. In addition, the key has been changed from the original Ab major to A major, which is much more suited to strings and gives the piece a more open and optimistic feeling, in keeping with the composer's intent.

Duration: 2m 50s