Carmen Reduced Orchestration
Carmen
Georges Bizet
Reduced Orchestration: 1(picc)011 1100 11111 harp timp/perc
Flute/Piccolo, Clarinet, Bassoon, Horn, Trumpet, Violin I, Violin II, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Harp, Timpani/Percussion
There are two slightly differing sets of string parts for this orchestral reduction. The first set is for a single string quintet, enabling performances with twelve players in total (this was how this reduction was first performed). The second set is for an enlarged string section, with the string parts reverting to many of Bizet’s original ‘divisi’ sections.
In two numbers – the ‘Gypsy Dance’ (opening of Act II) and Entr’acte to Act IV – the violin 1 part contains elaborations derived from Pablo de Sarasate’s celebrated Carmen Fantasy, including a cadenza in the Act IV Entr’acte. These elaborations and cadenza are all optional and the standard 1st violin part is contained in the music.
This reduction was created in 2007 for performances at the Tobacco Factory Theatre in Bristol. It has been performed extensively worldwide with recent performances taking place in Italy, South Africa, Brazil, the UK and across the USA. Future performances include the Festival du Toûno, Switzerland in August 2023.
For more information or to hire this Carmen reduced orchestration, please contact usEffective reduction of Bizet’s symphonic score by Jonathan Lyness in which the string, wind and brass sections were well-balanced”