Edward Elgar: Romance Op.62 for double bass and piano (arr. Heyes)

About the Composition

Originally for bassoon and orchestra, Romance Op.62 was composed in January 1910 and is dedicated to Edwin F. James, the Principal Bassoonist of the London Symphony Orchestra. It was premiered a year later at a Herefordshire Orchestral Society concert with Edwin James as the soloist and conducted by the composer.

Romance was composed in a particularly creative period for Elgar, preceded by the Violin Concerto and followed by Symphony No.2, and in contrast to these two larger works, Romance is gentler and much shorter in length, shaped in the form of a musical interlude. Its sombre minor tonality, alongside music of a lyrical and more reflective nature, create a mini masterpiece which transcribes beautifully for the double bass.

Transposed

Transposed a fourth higher than the original, the soloist is able to demonstrate both the lyrical and technical possibilities of the double bass, throughout much of its range. A nobility and grandeur, typical of Elgar’s greatest music, is encapsulated in wonderfully lush and romantic harmonies against which the soloist is able to sing wonderfully evocative and sweeping melodies. There is a beautifully effective dialogue between the orchestra (piano) and soloist, and, at a little more than five minutes in length, Romance is perfect for any recital, venue, or audience.

At the time of its composition, Elgar also created versions for bassoon or violoncello and piano.

This edition includes piano accompaniments for both solo and orchestral tunings.