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Jean Baptiste Charles Dancla was born on December 19, 1817, in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, France. A prodigious talent, he became one of the most influential violinists and educators of the 19th century.
Discovered at age 9 by violinist Pierre Rode, who was so impressed he recommended Dancla to Pierre Baillot, Luigi Cherubini, and Rodolphe Kreutzer. Charles was admitted to the Paris Conservatory, where he studied violin with Baillot and composition with Fromental Halévy, influenced by virtuosos like Niccolò Paganini and Henri Vieuxtemps
He became solo violinist at the Paris Opéra in 1835 and later concertmaster
Taught at the Paris Conservatory from 1857 to 1892, shaping generations of violinists
Composed extensively with
6 symphonies
6 violin concertos
Numerous string quartets, trios, duets, and violin-piano works
Famous for his ‘Airs variés’, which are theme-based variations on operatic melodies
He also authored several publications, including:
‘Les Compositeurs chefs d’orchestre’ (1873)
‘Miscellanées musicales’ (1876)
and ‘Notes et souvenirs’ (1893), his autobiography
His teaching and compositions helped define the French violin school
Passed away on November 10, 1907, in Tunis, leaving behind a rich musical legacy
Air Varié No.6 on a theme of Mercadante is taken from the first set (Op.89). Dancla composed many works for his instrument, including two sets…
Air Varié No.6 on a theme of Mercadante is taken from the first set (Op.89). Dancla composed many works for his instrument, including two sets of operatic fantasies on themes from Italian opera for violin and piano (Op.89 and Op.118).
Newly arranged for double bass by David Heyes elegant and stylish theme is followed by three inventive and spritely variations ending with a short and exciting finale.
The piece uses a two octave range, into low thumb position, and its musical and technical challenges will make this ideal for the intermediate bassist who is confident in the orchestral range of the instrument and is looking for an ‘easy virtuoso’ piece to end a recital.
The piano accompaniment is simple and supportive and is available for both solo and orchestral tuning.
Charles Dancla (1818-1907) was a French violinist, teacher and composer and was the last representative of the French school of violin playing. He was a successful soloist and had the gift for writing bright and graceful music for the violin.
