The golden age of the String Orchestra repertoire were the last decades of the nineteenth century to the early twentieth century. The sound density, the great dynamic range, the soft drawings of the long phrasings and the instrumental virtuosity are all typical elements of this orchestral formation. In this same period the Great National Schools were born, seeking inspiration in the rich folk cultures. Among the pieces composed in this period, the Andante Cantabile for cello and string orchestra op. 11 by Pyotr Ilytch Tchaikovsky (1840-1893) definitely deserves the spotlight. It is a transcription, written by the composer himself, of the second movement of the famous String Quartet n. 1 op. 11.
Strongly influenced by Tchaikovsky’s style, the Russian composer and pianist Anton Arensky (1861-1906) is particularly known for his Variations on a theme by Tchaikovsky op. 35a. Also in this case it is a transcription for string orchestra made by the composer himself from the second movement of his String Quartet no. 2 in A minor, written in 1894 as a tribute to Tchaikovsky’s death.
Edward Elgar’s Elegy for String Orchestra is justly famous for its poignant beauty and warm nostalgia. Robert Fuchs (1927-1847) is a worthy heir of the Viennese romantic musical tradition. Appreciated by Johannes Brahms, who called him “a wonderful musician”, Fuchs manages to make a synthesis between the fresh and elegant style of Viennese music and the spontaneity of popular-inspired melodies.
The Orchestra da Camera Orfeo was founded in 2020 by young and aspiring conductor Domenico Famà, together they are quickly building an international career, playing at important venues and festivals.
