Camille Saint-Saëns

Carnival of the Animals

Clear the stage for the children! - Playing music together is fun! Good ensemble-playing, however, must be learned at an early age. This series has been designed to support those music teachers who want to develop the ensemble-playing skills of students at an early phase. Pieces have been carefully selected in order to appeal to young students and foster their enthusiasm for ensemble-playing. The arrangements are attractive and - since none of the parts are monotonous - provide incentive for students to practice at home. In order to accommodate individual needs, the arrangements allow a wide a variety of instruments. The first and second parts can be played by any number and combination of recorders, flutes and violins. The piano part has been kept at same technical level as the other instruments, allowing young pianist the same ensemble possibilities that are enjoyed by other instruments. Bassoon and/or cello and/or string bass can all play the bass voice. Finally, the percussion part has been kept simple enough so that all instrumentalists can take their turns at it. It has been our experience that the playing of new instruments enhances most students' musical enjoyment. Imaginative texts that link the musical numbers to each other have been included. They can be read between the individual pieces. In short, everything that is necessary for a successful performance has been included.