Marche Funebre d’une Marionnete

The "Funeral March of a Marionette" was originally written as a piano solo in 1872 and later transcribed for orchestra by the composer. The music tells the story of two members of a Marionette troupe having a duel in which one of them is killed. A party of pallbearers is organized and the procession marches towards the cemetery. The music soon takes on a more cheerful spirit, for some of the troupe, wearied with the march, seek consolation at a wayside inn, where they refresh themselves and reflect upon the many virtues of their late companion. At last they resume the march and enter the cemetery. The closing bars are intended to reflect upon the briefness and weariness of life, even for marionettes.

• 2 Flutes
• 2 Oboes
• English Horn
• 2 Clarinets 
• Bass Clarinet
• 2 Bassoons
• 2 Horns
• Double Bass