Deux Aubades: Conductor Score

Deux Aubades offers chamber orchestras a chance to explore a composer of genuine substance without the logistical demands of a full symphony orchestra. The intimate scoring—woodwinds, brass, and strings in perfect balance—creates transparent textures where each section can shine, and the ballet context gives the work narrative momentum that engages both musicians and audiences.

These aubades (morning serenades) bask in Romantic lyricism with a theatrical elegance rooted in French musical tradition. The writing breathes—there is space and grace, intimate ensemble textures that shift subtly in color and mood, creating a sense of unfolding drama in miniature.

Conductors leading chamber orchestras in concert or educational settings who want to expand beyond the standard Romantic repertoire with music of real craft and appeal. This score suits ensembles with secure string sections and competent wind players ready to carry solo material in a smaller orchestral context.

• Shape each aubade as a complete character study; resist the temptation to rush through these shorter movements in favor of clarity and phrase direction.
• Balance the woodwind solos carefully with the string foundation; these melodies should float above, not compete with, the accompaniment.
• Attend to the articulation of the horn part, which often anchors harmonic color; precise attack and release from the section make the orchestration sing.
• Use the conductor's score to map dynamic contours across the full orchestra; Lalo's scoring can obscure balance points that require intentional gesture.

Deux Aubades serves as an excellent concert opener or centerpiece for a program exploring nineteenth-century French orchestral music alongside works by Fauré, Saint-Saëns, or Massenet. Its moderate length and ballet origins make it an ideal fit for a thematic program centered on dance or theatrical music.

• Conducting clear phrase shapes and dynamic arcs in Romantic orchestration
• Balancing woodwind and brass solos within smaller ensemble textures
• Interpreting stylistic conventions of French Romantic ballet music
• Shaping musical narrative across connected short movements