Bassoon Concerto (Jolivet)

French composer André Jolivet wrote his Concerto for Bassoon, String Orchestra, Harp and Piano in 1953-1954. It was premièred on 30 November 1954 by Maurice Allard and the Orchestre Radio-Symphonique de Paris.[1]

It lasts about 13 minutes[1] and is considered one of the most difficult concertos in the instrument's repertoire.[2]

Overview

The concerto is in four movements.

Echoing the Baroque slow-fast-slow-fast Sonata da chiesa,[3] it also displays influence from Neo-classicism and Jazz.[4]

The serene opening Recitativo displays the large range of the bassoon[3] while the second movement Allegro giovale features joyful syncopated rhythms.[5] Its melodic lines suit the capabilities of the instrument remarkably well.[3] The Largo cantabile has been described as haunting, lyrical and colourful[4][6] with some fine contributions of the solo violin and the harp.[5] Finally, the lively, sparkling Fugato belies its relatively austere title and includes some enchanting effects.[3][5]

One of the most difficult concertos in the bassoon's repertoire, it has been called a "delight for virtuosos".[3]

Movements

  1. Recitativo
  2. Allegro gioviale
  3. Largo cantabile
  4. Fugato

Selected Discography

References

  1. 1 2 IRCAM data sheet
  2. ↑ International Double Reed Society Forum, January 2008
  3. 1 2 3 4 5 Breier, Albert (2005), 20th Century Bassoon Concertos, (Capriccio Records - 67-139), liner notes (translated by Janet and Michael Berridge).
  4. 1 2 Musicweb-international.com CD Review - Jonathan Woolf
  5. 1 2 3 Seen and Heard International, Concert Review, Glyn Pursglove, December 2011.
  6. ↑ Arkivmusic.com, Fanfare Review, Ronald E. Grames
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