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Versions by Cristian Orozco

CLASSICS for TRIO

for three marimbas

A selection of four renowned and essential works from the academic-symphonic repertoire, adapted for three marimbas. Despite the challenge this represents, Cristian has succeeded in capturing the essence of the orchestra's majestic sound within the marimba's tones, without losing power or concept, while maintaining the important level of artistry each composer instilled in their work.
For Cristian, this experience was both interesting and enjoyable, inspiring him to explore new forms of interpretation and to experiment with musical creativity.

Instrumentation:

  • Two Marimbas (low A)

  • Five octaves Marimba Vibraphone - optional

PDF MUSIC

ALLEGRO - from "A Litlle Night Music"
by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

The opening movement is one of the most celebrated in Mozart's oeuvre, embodying the elegance and jovial spirit of Viennese Classicism. Composed in 1787, originally for string orchestra, it has captivated audiences from the very first note, who delight in this masterpiece.
As usual, Cristian’s version remains faithful to the original composition but adds his unique touch, characterized by subtlety, originality, and a refined sense of taste that preserves the essence of the work.

THE FLIGHT OF THE BUMBLEBEE - from the opera "The Tale of Tzar Saltan"
by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

Composed in 1900 by the renowned composer Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, this piece is an orchestral interlude for the opera "The Tale of Tsar Saltan." The piece closes Act III, Scene I, right after the magical Swan gives Prince Gvidon Saltanovich instructions on how to transform into an insect, allowing him to fly and visit his father, who is unaware that his son is still alive. It is a fascinating composition, masterfully depicting the flight of a bumblebee.
Cristian has managed to convey the composer’s intentions using three marimbas, which together recreate the scene of the flight. The interaction between the marimbas requires precise synchronization to achieve a single sound… one continuous buzz.

IN THE HALL OF THE MOUNTAIN-KING - from "Peer Gynt Suite N°1"
by Edvard Grieg

Written in 1875 by composer Edvard Grieg, this piece is part of the "Peer Gynt" Suite No. 1, Op. 46, based on incidental music composed for the work of the same name by dramaturge Henrik Ibsen. The piece describes Peer Gynt's attempt to escape from the King and his trolls after having insulted the King's daughter. It is an intriguing work, characterized by constant repetition that heightens the sense of anxiety and adrenaline experienced by Gynt in this scene.
In his version, Cristian evokes subtle sonorities from the beginning, gradually building to a combination of frenetic and violent sounds that enhance the piece’s inherent intensity.

PIZZICATO-POLKA
by Johann Strauss Sohn and Josef Strauss

This charming polka, composed by brothers Johann II and Josef Strauss in 1869 during their stay in Saint Petersburg, Russia, is another example of the ingenious compositions that define the Strauss family. This polka is performed entirely with pizzicato, a technique characteristic of string instruments.
In his version, Cristian uses the “with fingers” effect, adding an interesting sonic subtlety to the piece, without losing its essence, while highlighting the performers’ musical skills.

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