Danza Española No. 1 from 'La vida breve' by Manuel de Falla, arranged for clarinet choir by Matt Johnston. Manuel de Falla's ‘La vida breve’ is a powerful Spanish opera in two acts, composed in 1904-1905, with a libretto by Carlos Fernández-Shaw. The work is notable for its vivid orchestration, flamenco-inspired rhythms, and Andalusian color, which capture the intensity and passion of Spanish folk music. Originally composed as a one-act opera for a competition held by the Real Academia de Bellas Artes in Madrid, ‘La vida breve’ won the contest but faced delays before it finally premiered in 1913 in Nice, France. The Danza Española No. 1 is filled with fiery passion and intensity, capturing the drama and emotion of Andalusian dance.

Instrumentation:

• E-Flat Clarinet
• 5 B-Flat Clarinets
• Alto Clarinet/Basset Horn/Clarinet 6
• 2 Bass Clarinets
• Contrabass Clarinet/Contralto/String Bass

Optional Percussion:

• Timpani
• Castanets