Delius, Serenade From Hassan For Violin & Piano (Boosey & Hawkes)
Atmospheric lyricism and theatrical elegance define Delius: Serenade from Hassan for Violin & Piano by Frederick Delius, published by Boosey & Hawkes and arranged for violin and piano by the distinguished violist Lionel Tertis.
The music originates from Delius’s incidental score for Hassan, written in 1920 for the play by James Elroy Flecker, even before the drama was formally published. Premiered in September 1923, the production enjoyed remarkable success, running for 281 performances at His Majesty’s Theatre and bringing Delius both artistic acclaim and financial reward.
In this chamber arrangement, the violin becomes the expressive narrator, unfolding long, gently arching melodic lines over a harmonically rich piano texture. The serenade captures Delius’s unmistakable sound world—sensuous harmonies, subtle rhythmic flow, and an impressionistic glow that favors emotional atmosphere over overt virtuosity. It is a work that rewards mature tonal control and nuanced phrasing, making it a refined addition to recital programs seeking lyrical depth.
Key features:
- Derived from Delius’s celebrated incidental music for Hassan
- Arranged by Lionel Tertis with elegant violin focus
- Rich in lyrical warmth and atmospheric color
- Reflects early 20th-century English impressionism
- Ideal for expressive recital and chamber programming
- Encourages sustained tone and refined interpretative shaping
- Combines theatrical history with intimate musical storytelling