Leroy Anderson composed "Arietta" in 1962 in Woodbury, Connecticut. The main melody first materialized as a brief eight-measure sketch for viola and cello, intended for Leroy Anderson's daughter Jane on viola and himself on cello. Anderson later decided to expand the melody into a composition for string orchestra. Leroy Anderson is known for his polished orchestrations of descriptive compositions, characterized as romantic or nostalgic in theme. "Arietta" stands in contrast as an elegant, cool and somewhat abstract piece.
"...the string part of the orchestra and string orchestra editions are identical, since the music is complete with strings alone. Wind parts of the orchestra editions double the strings for added color and may be used as available."
Significant recording
Leroy Anderson conducted a studio orchestra in his 1962 Stereo recording of "Arietta" for Decca Records. 57 musicians, many of whom were the Principals of their respective orchestra sections, came to perform for the recording. They were chosen from the New York Philharmonic, the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the NBC Symphony, the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, The Goldman Band and the Beaux Arts Trio.
The studio orchestra included 12 First Violins, 6 Second Violins, 6 Violas, 5 Celli, 2 Basses, 1 Harp, 2 Flutes, 1 Piccolo, 2 Oboes, 4 Clarinets, 2 Bassoons, 4 Horns, 3 Trumpets, 3 Trombones, 3 Drummers and 1 Tuba.
Printed Music
Arietta for String Orchestra is normally available through Alfred Music. However it is currently not available. The music for Arietta may be purchased from the publisher - Woodbury Music Company.
Copyrights to the music of Leroy Anderson
are held by Woodbury Music Company LLC.
For information concerning the use
of Leroy Anderson's music,
contact the Leroy Anderson family at:
info[at]woodburymusic[dot]com.
Back to Music of Leroy Anderson
