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- Kalinnikov, Vassili S.
- Kohler, Moritz
Duration: 2 minutes
Description: CHANSON TRISTE by Vassili Kalinnikov (1866–1901) was composed in 1893 as the first of his 4 COMPOSITIONS FOR PIANO, during the years when he supported himself through teaching and conducting while struggling with declining health. The piece’s gentle melancholy, lyricism, and clear melodic contour quickly made it one of his most beloved miniatures, inspiring numerous later arrangements — including the widely performed transcription for string orchestra by Moritz Köhler, which enhances the music’s warm, singing character. Although no specific premiere of Köhler’s transcription is documented, Chanson triste gained popularity early in the 20th century through frequent salon and orchestral performances, helping to keep Kalinnikov’s name alive beyond the fame of his two symphonies. Today CHANSON TRISTE remains a staple short work for string ensembles, valued for its expressive simplicity, heartfelt mood, and its place among the most enduring Russian lyrical character pieces. A string count of 8.8.5.5.5 is included in the set. Reprint edition.