Jacques Offenbach

Cancan

With his Galop Infernal from the second act of his operetta Orpheus in the Underworld (1858 in Paris), Jacques Offenbach gave us what is probably the most famous music ever written to accompany the cancan; in fact, it has long been one of the most popular melodies worldwide. The cancan, a fast French dance in 2/4 time, evolved in Paris around 1830, where it is still today one of the attractions of the music hall Moulin Rouge.

Essential for any performance is first of all a string ensemble but the piece can even be played by the soloists of a string quartet if desired. Apart from Violin I (and the first few bars of the cello), all the parts only require the first position; moreover, the viola can be replaced by a Violin III. An easy part for the violin (using only the first finger pattern) is also provided so that beginners can be included too. The parts are marked with bowing.

Additionally, both a full complement of woodwind (flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon) and brass instruments (trumpet, horn, trombone) can also join in ad libitum. Timpani, percussion, xylophone, harp and piano put the finishing touches to the symphonic soundscape.

The score is written in C while the parts in the parts book are transposed accordingly.