Carmen Fantasia: 2 Solo Trumpets with Piano & Percussion Part(s)

Hunsberger's arrangement transforms Carmen into a showcase that demands real artistry from both soloists while staying musically true to Bizet's most iconic moments. The flexibility to omit percussion and percussion parts, perform sections independently, and adjust cadenzas means this works for the duo that's tournament-ready and the one building confidence, all without sacrificing sophistication.

Energetic and theatrical. The familiar melodies of Carmen drive forward with both confidence and drama; the writing sparkles with rapid passagework, soaring lines, and moments of lyrical intensity that keep both players engaged. Cadenzas offer chances for individual personality while the ensemble passages lock the duo into a shared musical gesture.

Advanced high school trumpet duos and collegiate brass ensembles preparing for festival play or recital. This also works for any serious trumpet pair seeking a technically demanding arrangement that combines virtuosic display with musical substance.

• Balance the trumpet duo as equal voices in the ensemble texture, not as soloist and accompanist; clarity between parts matters more than projection.
• Work the cadenzas early and thoroughly since they can be reshaped to suit each player's strengths; use this flexibility strategically rather than leaving it to rehearsal week.
• Coordinate with the pianist on the character shifts between Carmen's famous tunes; the accompaniment anchors the harmonic world and sets the dramatic pace.
• Consider performing the work in its entirety first, then use individual sections for encores or as filler programming; audiences recognize Bizet's melodies and want the full journey.

Open a brass or chamber concert with this as a dramatic statement piece. Its length and content allow it to anchor a recital or serve as the evening's showstopper. The ability to program individual sections also means you can preview it in a workshop or masterclass setting before committing to a full performance.

• Reading complex rhythmic figures and rapid passagework across register changes
• Balancing and blending two trumpet lines as co-equal voices
• Performing substantial cadenzas with musicality and technical control
• Adapting performance between multiple instrument options (trumpet, flugelhorn, piccolo)
• Coordinating ensemble rhythm and phrasing with piano and percussion accompaniment