Rondeau No. 3

Description

Violin 1, Violin 2, Violin 3, Viola, Cello, Contrabass — As a composer, Joseph Bologne was quite prolific, composing six operas, fourteen violin concertos, four symphonies concertantes, and numerous chamber works and songs. His Six String Quartets, Op. 1, Nos. 1-6 date from 1770-1771 and are dedicated to Anne Louis Alexandre de Montmorency (1724-1812), 7th Prince of Robeck and Grand Duke of Spain. All of his quartets feature a prominent first violin part and the Opus 1 quartets all display a similarity to the Italian opera overtures from earlier in the century in A-B-A form with the ‘A’ sections being robust allegros and all ‘B’ sections marked rondo.This lively Rondeau from Bologne's Six String Quartets, Op. 1xa0is a classic seven-part rondo with an ABACAB’A formula. The ‘A’ sections are set in G Major, ‘B’ in D Major, and ‘C’ in G Minor. As was typical of the Classical style, the primary melody is heard mainly in first violin, while other sections provide supporting harmonic and rhythmic roles. The essence of the string quartet scoring is retained by having the bass double the cello part. This makes more of this significant composer’s music accessible to school ensembles, resulting in a charming concert selection appropriate for concert or festival. This lively Rondeau from Bologne's Six String Quartets, Op. 1is a classic seven-part rondo in G Major, D Major, and G minor. As was typical of the Classical style, the melody is heard mainly in first violin, while other sections provide supporting harmonic and rhythmic roles. The essence of the string quartet scoring is retained by having the bass double the cello part, resulting in a charming and accessible concert selection.

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