Streichsextett B-Dur

iErnst von Dohnanyi (1877-1960) is generally regarded, after Liszt, as Hungary’s most versatile musician. He was active as a concert pianist, composer, conductor and teacher and must be considered one of the chief influences on Hungary’s musical life in the 20th century. Certainly, his chamber music is very fine, with most of it being in the masterwork category.

For our edition, we consulted the 1893 manuscript which is in the British Library and also the 1896 revised manuscript which can be found in the library of Florida State University where Dohnanyi taught for many years. The 1898-99 manuscript appears to have been lost. While there have been other editions, we believe ours is the only one which is a performance ready edition, that is to say, page turns have been made with the performer in mind. This is a lovely work, which is a fine addition to the string sextet repertoire and which should appeal to both pros and amateurs.

In addition, we are pleased to offer this Sextet in a version for 2 Violins, 2 Violas, Cello and Bass. Our bass part was made by Anthony Scelba, noted bass soloist, Professor of Music and Director of the Concert Artists Program of Kean University. In an effort to give bass players a chance to play many of the great works of the chamber music repertoire, Professor Scelba has made several highly acclaimed transcriptions, including one for the Schubert Quintet D.956, which has been recorded.