Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs), Op. 20 Cover Image

Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs), Op. 20: Full Orchestra, Solo Strings with Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

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Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs), Op. 20 Cover Image

Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs), Op. 20: Full Orchestra, Solo Strings with Ensemble Conductor Score & Parts

By Pablo De Sarasate

Item: 36-A198802

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Description
Written by Pablo de Sarasate (1844-1908) in 1878, Zigeunerweisen (Gypsy Airs), Op. 20 is a favorite among violin virtuosos, having been recorded many times, including by Sarasate himself. Some of the themes thought to be of Romani (gypsy) origin are actually Hungarian, but this was a common mistake by composers of the time, and the work is no less thrilling for it. Premiered in 1878 in Leipzig, the showpiece is divided into four sections that are performed with no pause. Instrumentation: 2.2.2.2: 2.2.0.0: Timp.Perc(1): Str (9-8-7-6-5 in set): Solo Violin.

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Additional Details
Series: Kalmus Orchestra Library
Publisher: Keiser Productions, Inc.
UPC: 735816388898
SKU: 36-A198802
Instrumentation: Full Orchestra, Solo Strings with Ensemble

More about this title

About the Composer: Pablo de Sarasate

Pablo de Sarasate was a Spanish violinist and composer whose virtuosic technique defined the instrument's possibilities in the late 19th century. Born in Pamplona in 1844, he became one of the most celebrated soloists of his era, and his compositions for violin remain central to the concert repertoire. Sarasate wrote for his own instrument with complete understanding of its capabilities, creating works that demand technical brilliance while remaining deeply musical.

Why we love this

This work cuts straight to the heart of what audiences love about the concerto tradition: a virtuoso soloist commanding the stage while the orchestra provides colorful, energetic support. The four connected sections move from sultry intensity to breathless display work without releasing tension, giving your soloist an unforgettable vehicle and your orchestra a chance to play with character and precision.

What to expect

Sultry and restless, shot through with pyrotechnic energy. The work captures a romanticized vision of Romani musical character through pulsing rhythms, yearning melodies, and moments of dazzling technical display that feel simultaneously dangerous and irresistible.

Who it's for

Orchestras with a capable solo violinist who can handle technical demands with musicality and style. This is an excellent choice for programs seeking a crowd-pleasing virtuoso showpiece that doesn't require a massive ensemble but rewards strong sectional playing.

How to get the most out of it

  • Bring out the Spanish and Hungarian melodic flavors by encouraging the solo violinist to phrase with rubato in the opening sections; this isn't German Romanticism, and the themes need breathing room.
  • Keep the ensemble locked in during the faster passages, especially in the virtuosic display sections where the soloist's freedom depends on rhythmic stability from the strings and woodwinds.
  • Balance the solo line carefully in the opening; the violin must soar over the orchestra without the accompaniment being pushed into shadow.

How to use it

Program this as a mid-concert spotlight for your string section, or as the centerpiece of a pops concert when you want to showcase both a soloist and your ensemble's versatility. The connected structure means it works well when you need a single substantial work rather than multiple shorter pieces.

Skills your students will build

  • Balancing solo projection with ensemble accompaniment
  • Playing character-driven music with Spanish and Eastern European stylistic inflection
  • Managing rhythmic stability while accommodating soloist rubato
  • Precision in fast passage work and sectional coordination
  • Sustaining intensity across connected musical sections without formal breaks

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