Sicilienne, Op. 78

Sicilienne, Op. 78 by Gabriel Fauré arranged for Any Saxophone Solo with Piano. both B flat and E flat solo saxophone parts are included. Originally composed in 1893, it was originally an orchestral piece, written for a theatrical production that was abandoned. In 1898 Fauré arranged the unperformed music as a work for cello and piano. Later the same year he included it in the incidental music for Maurice Maeterlinck’s play, Pelléas et Mélisande. Since then, it has become very popular and has been recorded many times by many different instrumentalists. This arrangement includes s Piano Score with saxophone part shown in C, B flat saxophone (soprano or tenor) solo part (transposed), and E flat saxophone (alto or baritone) solo part (transposed). This arrangement of Sicilienne, Op. 78 is in the original keys of G minor and E flat major. Typical of the sicilienne, it is in 6/8 time and a moderate tempo with a gently rocking feeling. The playing time of the piece is typically between three and a half and four minutes. Some sections of the melody are quite chromatic and will provide a challenge to rising players. Overall, the piece provides an excellent opportunity for the soloist to demonstrate their expressive, lyrical playing skills. The E-flat solo part reaches into the lower altissimo range and is therefore a bit more advanced. An alternate passage is provided in that part to avoid the altissimo if desired.