Sarabande et Cortege - BSN/PN

Sarabande et Cortege
for bassoon and piano
by Henri Dutilleux (1916-2013) - French composer

The Sarabande et Cortege for Bassoon and Piano displays influences of Debussy's eschewing of tonality and Ravel's inventive textures. These, combined with a unique use of structure and pedal points create a truly riveting piece for Bassoon and Piano. Sarabande et Cortege comes at the beginning of Dutilleux's career and was composed as part of a set of four exam pieces for the Paris Conservatoire (1942-1950). The popularity of all four pieces remains, and they continue to be performed to this day. Elements like lyrical melodies and furious passage-work  make for an exciting piece for bassoonists. 

To hear a Youtube recording of this piece by Laura Bennett Cameron, please click HERE..