Description

Brass Solo with Piano Accompaniment – “Une Larme” by Modest Mussorgsky

Level of Difficulty: Medium

This expressive arrangement of Une Larme (A Tear) by Russian composer Modest Mussorgsky (1839–1881) offers brass musicians a poignant and lyrical solo piece with piano accompaniment. Originally written for solo piano, this introspective work conveys a mood of quiet melancholy and nostalgia, making it a moving addition to any recital or concert program.

Arrangement Details:

This arrangement is available in three different keys, accommodating a variety of brass instruments:

A-flat Major Version

Trumpet/Cornet in C
Trumpet/Cornet in B-flat
Trombone (Bass Clef)
Trombone (Tenor Clef)
Euphonium/Baritone (Treble Clef)

B-flat Major Version

Tuba (Bass Clef)
Tuba in B-flat

E-flat Major Version

Trumpet/Cornet in E-flat
Horn in F
Horn in E-flat
Tuba in E-flat

About the Composer:

Modest Mussorgsky was a pioneering Russian composer and a member of The Five (or The Mighty Handful), a group dedicated to creating a distinctly Russian classical style. Known for his bold harmonies and vivid storytelling, Mussorgsky’s works—such as Pictures at an Exhibition, Night on Bald Mountain, and the opera Boris Godunov—remain staples of the repertoire.

Une Larme (A Tear), composed around 1880, is a brief yet deeply emotional piece. Its subtitle, Pensée musicale (Musical Thought), reflects its intimate and contemplative nature. Some scholars interpret it as an autobiographical reflection, possibly tied to Mussorgsky’s personal struggles in his later years.

Musical Style & Performance Notes:

Lyrical and expressive, with a simple, song-like melody
Sparse textures and free-flowing phrasing, requiring sensitive musicality
Ideal for intermediate players seeking a piece with emotional depth
Well-suited for recitals, concerts, or competitions

This arrangement preserves the delicate beauty of Mussorgsky’s original while making it accessible to brass performers. Whether played on trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium, or tuba, Une Larme offers a touching musical moment that resonates with audiences.

Perfect for: