Danse sacrée op. 36/2

Scoring: 1(Picc.).1.2.1.-2.0.0.0., Timp, Str

The „Danse sacrée“ is part of an ensemble entitled „Suite en forme de valses“, published in 1898 by Leduc. The ensemble contains four pieces: Ballabile, Danse sacrée, Scherzo-Valse, Interlude et valse lente. These pieces were published in the versions for piano solo, piano four hands and orchestra. On the cover of the version for piano solo, there is a remark „according to the Suite en forme de valses for orchestra“. The orchestral version would therefore be the original version.

„Danse sacrée“ has been published seperately. In fact, the „Danse sacrée“ takes a special place in this salon music ensemble. The exceptionally slow triple rhythm with its orientalizing and almost agonizing character leads the listeners as in a dream through a fascinating way to a trancelike condition. The instrumentation is splendid.