Looking for a brilliant showpiece that's both exhilarating to play and a delight for the audience? E. Mollenhauer's 'The Infant Paganini' is the answer! This stunning concert piece is perfect for an aspiring virtuoso, giving the soloist a chance to shine with dazzling sections and a truly memorable melody. Warning: may cause your orchestra to look jealous of the violin’s finger dexterity!
About the Piece
Originally written by German violinist and composer Eduard Mollenhauer (1827–1914), this concert transcription has always been a favourite showstopper in the intermediate repertoire. Mollenhauer, who toured extensively in America, specialised in captivating violin music that was technically challenging yet always musically rewarding. The piece is a charming and dramatic 'fantasy' on themes that evoke the spirit of the great Niccolò Paganini—full of flair, rapid passages, and a touch of the theatrical.
This new MyMusicScores arrangement for Solo Violin and String Orchestra takes the original piano accompaniment and transforms it into a full, lush string ensemble score. We’ve meticulously edited the solo part for maximum clarity and ensured the orchestral accompaniment is perfectly balanced, giving the soloist a rich, supportive sonic backdrop without ever covering them up. It’s the perfect way to bring this charismatic classic to life in your next concert.
Key Features
- Instrumentation: Solo Violin and String Orchestra (Violin I, Violin II, Viola, Cello, Double Bass).
- Difficulty: Intermediate
- Arranger/Editor: Paul Wood. Meticulously edited and re-engraved for crystal-clear legibility.
- Format: High-quality PDF for instant download and printing (Full Score & all Parts).
- Arrangement Style: A faithful yet powerful string orchestra arrangement of the original violin and piano work, retaining all the thrilling virtuosity.
Why It Matters
"The Infant Paganini" is a fantastic piece for any young player ready to make the leap into serious solo repertoire. It’s a confidence-builder, a technique polisher, and a true crowd-pleaser all rolled into one. By playing this piece, you’re not just perfecting your technique; you’re joining a long lineage of players who have used Mollenhauer's work to bring the roof down at their concerts. We’re excited to help you rediscover this brilliant classic and give your ensemble a fresh, thrilling sound!
Closing Note
Perfect for advanced student recitals, youth orchestra concerts, or as a spirited encore. Grab your bow, embrace your inner virtuoso, and let us know when you’ve mastered those tricky bits! Share your performance with us—we’d love to feature it!
