Le Barbier De Seville – Air de Figaro by Rossini arr. Karine Criscolo

Le Barbier de Séville – Air de Figaro by Gioachino Rossini, arranged by Karine Criscolo, is an exhilarating percussion sextet adaptation of the iconic aria “Largo al factotum” from Rossini’s celebrated opera. This arrangement brings the vivacious energy and rhythmic brilliance of the original vocal piece into the realm of percussion ensemble performance, offering intermediate-level players a dynamic and engaging repertoire addition.

Originally composed in 1816, “Largo al factotum” is renowned for its rapid-fire vocal lines and exuberant character, encapsulating the essence of the opera’s protagonist, Figaro. Criscolo’s arrangement masterfully transposes these elements into a percussive context, utilizing a diverse instrumentation that includes two xylophones, two marimbas, and additional percussion instruments. This setup allows for a rich tapestry of timbres and rhythmic interplay, capturing the spirit of the original aria while providing a fresh, contemporary perspective.

The piece is structured to highlight the technical and expressive capabilities of each performer, with interlocking rhythms and dynamic contrasts that require precise coordination and musical sensitivity. The arrangement maintains the original’s lively tempo and intricate phrasing, challenging players to deliver a performance that is both technically proficient and artistically compelling.

Ideal for concert performances, ensemble competitions, and educational settings, this arrangement serves as both a showcase piece and a valuable pedagogical tool. It encourages the development of ensemble cohesion, rhythmic accuracy, and interpretative skills, making it a fitting choice for percussionists seeking to broaden their repertoire with a work that is both entertaining and musically substantial.

Karine Criscolo,

known for her innovative contributions to percussion literature, brings her expertise to this arrangement, ensuring that it is both faithful to the original composition and tailored to the strengths of a percussion ensemble. Her adaptation offers a unique opportunity for performers to engage with a classic operatic work through the lens of contemporary percussion performance.

• Instrumentation: 2 xylophones, 2 marimbas, and additional percussion instruments
• Number of Players: 6
• Difficulty: Intermediate
• Publisher: Alfonce Production
• Product Code: A103 010 P

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Le Barbier de Séville – Air de Figaro arranged by Karine Criscolo offers a vibrant and challenging addition to the percussion ensemble repertoire, blending classical operatic themes with contemporary percussive artistry.