Georges Bizet - L’ Arlésienne, Suite No. 1

Manuscript page of Georges Bizet’s L’Arlésienne Suite No. 1

Page from the manuscript of Georges Bizet’s L’Arlésienne, revealing the composer’s handwritten orchestral ideas.

In 1872, Georges Bizet composed the incidental music for L’Arlésienne, a drama of love and tragedy set in rural Provence, written by Alphonse Daudet and inspired by a true story. The plot revolves around two brothers: Frédéri, consumed by his obsessive love for a girl from Arles, and L’Innocent, his mentally impaired younger brother, who mysteriously regains clarity of mind only after Frédéri’s tragic death.

The theatrical production itself was not well received and closed shortly after its premiere. Bizet, however, quickly recognized the independent strength of his music and arranged a four-movement concert suite. Detached from the stage, the music immediately gained popularity and remains today one of his most frequently performed orchestral works.

Movements:

I. Prélude, Allegro deciso

The Prelude opens with an old Provençal march, first presented by strings and woodwinds separately and then united in powerful unison. Bizet develops the theme through several variations before restoring it in its original, vibrant form.

A contrasting central section follows: slow, restrained, and quietly haunting. This theme, entrusted to the saxophone, represents L’Innocent and is one of the earliest and most expressive uses of the instrument in the orchestral repertoire.
The movement concludes with the dark, passionate theme of Frédéri, introduced by the violins and gradually expanded by the full orchestra.

II. Minuet, Allegro giocoso

The Minuet unfolds with lightness and elegance. After its graceful opening, clarinet and saxophone share a warm, lyrical melody while the violins weave a delicate contrapuntal texture above. Bizet’s orchestration here is effortless and refined, closing with a charming exchange between strings and woodwinds.

III. Adagietto

One of the most tender pages Bizet ever wrote, the Adagietto conveys youthful love through restraint rather than excess. Its noble simplicity and heartfelt lyricism lead to a serene and deeply affecting conclusion.

IV. Carillon, Allegro moderato

The final movement begins with bell-like figures, evoking villagers gathering for the feast of their patron saint. The music alternates between festive energy and lyrical reflection, notably in a flute-led central episode. Horns gently guide the return to the opening material, and the suite closes with a confident, resonant orchestral affirmation.

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