Sarasate Introduction and Tarantella for Violin and String Orchestra

The Introduction and Tarantella gives a concert violinist two things in six minutes: a slow, expressive introduction that builds expectation, and a tarantella that leaves almost no respite from that point on. The piece benefits from an orchestral accompaniment, and the original piano version, while practical, loses the timbral contrast that makes the transitions between sections land properly.

This arrangement sets the accompaniment for string orchestra throughout. Sarasate's piano writing translates naturally to strings: the harmonic language is idiomatic, the textures sit well in the string orchestra, and the climaxes of the tarantella gain a weight and momentum that the piano cannot quite match. The solo part is Sarasate's own throughout.

At six minutes, it works well as a programme closer or a substantial encore, and it has the kind of immediate impact that audiences recognise.

Check the score and parts preview images above, then watch the complete score video below. They'll give you a clear sense of the engraving quality, orchestral balance, and overall difficulty before you buy.

Key features

• Instrumentation: Solo Violin + String Orchestra (Violin I, Violin II, Viola, Cello, Double Bass)
• Difficulty: Diploma / Professional (solo); advanced string orchestra (ensemble)
• Duration: approximately 6 minutes
• Format: PDF download, full score and all parts
• Orchestration: arranged from the original violin and piano score; solo part unchanged

Who it's for

This suits professional and conservatoire violinists looking for a high-impact showpiece with a manageable ensemble. It works well as a programme closer in string orchestra concerts and pairs naturally with other Sarasate works or Spanish-flavoured repertoire.