Sarasate Navarra Op. 33 for 2 Violins and String Orchestra

Sarasate's Navarra Op. 33 was originally conceived for two violins and piano or orchestra, which means a string orchestra version is entirely in keeping with what Sarasate intended. This arrangement expands the piano accompaniment into a full string orchestra, built from Sarasate's original with the harmonic structure preserved and the textures rewritten for strings, giving the piece the orchestral weight and colour it was always capable of carrying.

The two solo parts are unchanged. Fast passagework, intricate coordination between the two violinists, and the rhythmic precision and Spanish flair the music demands are all present and uncompromised. The string orchestra adds momentum and depth behind the soloists without softening any of the piece's brilliance: if anything, the sustained energy of a string ensemble suits Navarra's drive better than a piano accompaniment in a concert setting. Both solo violins remain clearly at the front of the texture throughout.

At five minutes it works perfectly as a concert showpiece: short enough to land as a single concentrated impact, substantial enough to leave an impression.

See and hear the difference

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

Key features

• Instrumentation: Two Solo Violins + String Orchestra (Violin I, Violin II, Viola, Cello, Double Bass)
• Difficulty: Professional (both soloists); advanced string orchestra
• Duration: approximately 5 minutes
• Style focus: Spanish folk character, virtuosic passagework, ensemble coordination
• Format: PDF download, full score and all parts

Who it's for

This suits professional and conservatoire-level violinists looking for a high-impact duo showpiece that can be performed with orchestral support. It works well in chamber orchestra concerts, duo recitals with ensemble, and professional concert programmes where something dazzling and immediately accessible to audiences is needed. A two violins and piano edition is also available separately.