Charles Camille Saint-Saëns ： Rhapsodie dAuvergne in C-Dur Op.73

Written by Saint-Saëns for piano and orchestra, this is a concertante rhapsody in C major. Within its freely unfolding course, singing melodies, lively dance-like rhythms, and brilliant piano writing appear in succession, while exchanges between the soloist and orchestra lend the music a wide range of expression. The contrast between calm passages and powerful climaxes is another point to appreciate. In performance, it is important to preserve the natural breathing of the melodies, articulate the detailed figures clearly, and maintain a well-balanced relationship of volume and tone color with the orchestra. Changes of tempo should enhance the music’s freedom without disturbing its overall flow.