Suite Casse-Noisette by Tchaikovsky arr.Thomas Lestrelin

Suite Casse-Noisette, arranged by Thomas Lestrelin, brings the magic of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker Suite into the hands of percussionists. Scored for a quintet of mallet instruments, this arrangement gives intermediate players the chance to explore one of classical music’s most iconic works in a new and exciting way.

Originally written in 1892, Tchaikovsky’s ballet music is filled with memorable melodies, rich harmonies, and colorful orchestration. In this percussion adaptation, the spirit of the original is carefully preserved. Lestrelin uses a combination of two xylophones, glockenspiel, vibraphone, and marimba to recreate the charm and energy of the Nutcracker’s most beloved movements.

Each part in the quintet contributes to the full musical texture, offering all players meaningful material to perform. The arrangement includes recognizable themes such as the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” and the “Waltz of the Flowers,” making it immediately engaging for performers and audiences alike. Players will develop essential skills like ensemble coordination, phrasing, dynamic contrast, and rhythmic precision.

Suite Casse-Noisette

is especially well-suited for students in Cycle 2, offering technical growth without overwhelming complexity. It’s ideal for holiday concerts, studio recitals, or classroom ensemble work. The compact format makes it accessible, yet the musical content is rich and satisfying.

Thomas Lestrelin is known for crafting percussion arrangements that respect the original spirit of the music while making it approachable for educational settings. His thoughtful treatment of Tchaikovsky’s material ensures that this suite feels both authentic and fresh, providing a rewarding performance experience.

• Instrumentation: 2 xylophones, glockenspiel, vibraphone, marimba
• Number of Players: 5
• Duration: Approximately 6–8 minutes
• Difficulty: Intermediate (Cycle 2)
• Publisher: Alfonce Production
• Product Code: A271 003P

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Suite Casse-Noisette arranged by Thomas Lestrelin is a vibrant and elegant addition to the percussion ensemble repertoire—perfect for students and educators looking to bring classical favorites to life through mallet percussion.