Berlioz, H - Symphonie Fantastique, Movement 2

Broadbent & Dunn's Classic String Quartet Collection. Duration: 6 min. Berlioz's depiction of a brilliant ball scene, in which a jealous lover spots his beloved amidst the dancing throngs, is finely adapted here for the much smaller medium of the string quartet.  The skill of the arranger has ensured that the piece loses none of its sparkle and glamour.  For colleges, conservatories and professionals."The second movement of a classic orchestral work by Berlioz, 'Un Bal (A Ball)', can now be played by string quartet in this new arrangement.  From the composer’s original program notes regarding this movement: “The artist finds himself in the most diverse situations in life, in the tumult of a festive party, in the peaceful contemplation of the beautiful sights of nature, yet everywhere, whether in town or in the countryside, the beloved image [of his unattainable love] keeps haunting him and throws his spirit into confusion."  The first performance took place at the Paris Conservatoire in December of 1830, and the work was repeatedly revised between 1831 and 1845.  For the advanced string quartet."  News Notes May 2008