Granados – Orientale (Spanish Dance, No. 2 Op. 37) For Cello With Piano Accompaniment

Enrique Granados

Orientale (Spanish Dance, No. 2 Op. 37) For Cello With Piano Accompaniment

“Orientale” is a beautiful Spanish dance and the second piece from Enrique Granados’ collection of 12 Spanish Dances, Op. 37. This edition of “Orientale” has been edited for cello with piano accompaniment.

It’s worth noting that the editing was done by Gregor Piatigorsky, a renowned cellist whom Ivan Galamian, another prominent figure in the world of string playing, reportedly described as the greatest string player of all time. This edition allows cellists to explore and perform this delightful Spanish dance with the added richness of piano accompaniment, making it a captivating piece for both musicians and audiences.

AMEB:

Cello / Grade 7 / List D

• Orientale (Spanish dance No 2 Op. 37)

Who Was Enrique Granados?

Enrique Granados (1867-1916) was a Spanish composer and pianist known for his contributions to Spanish music during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. He was born in Lleida, Spain, and showed an early talent for music. Granados studied piano and composition in Barcelona and then continued his studies in Paris.

Granados is particularly recognized for his piano compositions, which often incorporated Spanish folk melodies and rhythms. His music is characterized by its passionate and lyrical qualities, evoking the rich and emotional aspects of Spanish culture. Some of his most famous compositions include “Goyescas,” a suite of piano pieces inspired by the paintings of Francisco Goya, and the set of 12 Spanish Dances, which includes “Orientale.”

In addition to his compositions, Granados was a virtuoso pianist and performed extensively in Spain and internationally. He also became a respected music teacher.
Tragically, Granados and his wife lost their lives in 1916 when their ship, the Sussex, was torpedoed by a German submarine during World War I. His death was a significant loss to the world of music, but his compositions continue to be celebrated and performed today as important contributions to Spanish classical music.