Duetto sur Maria Padilla

Duetto sur Maria Padilla composed by Cesare Ciardi (1818-1877)
Edited by Jean-Louis Beaumadier for Piccolo, C Flute, and Piano
Includes score and parts
Duration 8:40

“Around the middle of the 19th century, many composers wrote pieces for two flutes and piano, often allowing for possible substitute instruments: piccolo, flauto d'amore, or violin, oboe, bassoon… Born in Prato (Toscana), Cesare Ciardi was one of the greatest flute virtuosos of his time. He travelled extensively, performing to much acclaim. In 1853, he settled in Saint-Petersburg where he taught at the Conservatory and was solo flute at the Imperial Theater Italian Opera.  Ciardi's talent left such an unforgettable impression that his position was left vacant for a long time.  It was not before 1900 that another Italian flutist, Ernest Koller, was appointed flute solo at the imperial orchestra. Gaetano Donizetti's Maria Padilla was premiered in 1841.  Ciardi composed these flute variations in 1875.” – Gian Luca Petrucci (Preface)