Obscure Music Monday: Chaminade's Valse Carnavalesque

Cécile Louise Stéphanie Chaminade (Aug. 8, 1857 - April 13, 1944) was a French pianist and composer. Her first teacher was her mother, and she also took violin and compositions; sadly her father disapproved.Despite her father's disapproval, Chaminade was composing at a young age, and at eight years old she played some of her music for George Bizet, who was very impressed. Her first concert happened ten years later, and most of her compositions, which were mainly for piano, were published. She toured all around France, and Isidor Phillipp, head of the piano department at the Paris Conservatory, was a strong proponent of her works. Chaminade was also very popular in America; her work was often found in the music collections of song and piano music enthusiasts.

One of her many brilliant works is Valse Carnavalesque for piano 4 hands. This bright, brilliant work is as grand as you expect a carnival to be. It's simple and straightforward in its form, but is such fun is many other ways! Both pianists are busy with quick runs, dramatic dynamic changes, sparkling trills, and more that bring this joyful work to life. The main theme is cheerful as can be, and the piece is just plain fun to listen to! No doubt it's a great workout for both pianists though---there's hardly a moment's rest for either of them!