2(II=picc).2.2.2-4.2.3.0-timp.perc(2):glsp/xyl/cyms/susp.cym/tgl/cast/BD/SD-harp(pft)-strings; reduced version: 1.1.1.0-0.1.1.0-perc(1):glsp/cyms/susp.cym/tgl/cast/BD/SD-harp(pft)-strings
Britten composed two sparkling orchestral suites both based on themes by Rossini – Soirées musicales and Matineés musicales, op. 24. They revel in dance rhythms (both were choreographed by Balanchine) and demonstrate Britten’s orchestral mastery and tongue-in-cheek sense of humour. Widely performed by amateur and youth orchestras, these two suites provide substantial and exciting additions to any children’s or pops concert.