Fantasía Española: Viola

A spell-binding exploration of the music of Spain, Fantasía Española features four exciting yet contrasting sections and challenging parts for all players. Three of Spain's most famous composers are represented in this medley arranged by Bob Phillips. The piece begins with an exciting, driving excerpt from "Asturias (Leyenda)", by Isaac Albéniz, which, though written for piano, is most often heard on guitar. The setting of this section allows the violins and violas a display of virtuosity with its unrelenting rhythmic drive. Beautiful, lyric, and emotional, "Tango in D," also by Albéniz, will showcase the musicianship of the entire orchestra. Originally written for piano, the strings will shine in this second section of the arrangement. The third section is the slow and lyric, "Adelita." Drawn from the deep treasure of Spanish guitar music and written by the father of classical guitar, Francisco Tárrega, this piece is simply beautiful. The medley concludes with "Danza Ritual del Fuego" from the ballet El Amor Brujo. Written by Manuel de Falla for full orchestra, the string setting drives to a fabulous and dramatic finish.(5:45)