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Founded in 1926, Edwin F. Kalmus is the oldest reprint publisher in the United States.  Previously located in Boca Raton, FL, the company was moved to Jacksonville in 2018, and sold to Keiser Productions Inc. in 2020.  In addition to the well-known and improved reprint catalog, new series and editions are also being developed.

Octet, Op. 20

Composers:
  • Mendelssohn, Felix
Detailed Instrumentation: 4vn, 2va, 2vc (set as scored)
Duration: 33
Description:

Written when Felix Mendelssohn was only 16 years old, his “Octet in E-flat Major, Op. 20”, written in 1825 for four violins, two violas, and two cellos, contributed to the creation of a new chamber music genre and is one of Mendelssohn’s first works to be well-received. While double string quartets were gaining in popularity during the time this octet was composed, Mendelssohn noted in the score that the piece should “be played by all the instruments in the style of a symphony,” making the ensemble undivided. The scherzo movements was later scored for orchestra to replace the minuet at the premiere of Mendelssohn’s First Symphony. The work as a whole make extensive use of counterpoint, showcased most notably in the eight-part fugato during the finale movement.

Products:

  • A105002 / 36-A105002 OCTET, OP. 20 PTS $40.00Buy Now
  • A105001 / 36-A105001 OCTET CRSC $30.00Buy Now

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