André JOLIVET. Lot n° 41

Signed autograph music manuscript, Grave et Gigue for string orchestra [K 46b], 1938; 1 title page and 7 pages in fol. in booklet (spine and central fold reinforced). Version for string orchestra of these two pieces for violin and piano written in 1930 by Jolivet for his first wife, the violinist Martine Barbillon. Performed by Jolivet in July 1938, it was premiered by Jane Évrard and her orchestra at Radio Paris on January 27, 1939, and published by Leduc in 1938. The manuscript, carefully edited on 24-line Durand & Cie paper, presents two cancelled bars. It is dated at the end "VII. 1938". Bearing the stamp of the publisher Alphonse Leduc, it has been annotated in red and blue pencil for conducting. The number of musicians was noted by Jolivet on the back of the title: 6 first violins, 5 seconds, 4 violas, 4 cellos (or 3), 2 double basses. The writing is "simple and essentially diatonic in a sort of recreated modality. In the form of a da capo aria, the Grave, in a broad and solemn style, suggests some imitative entries that reinforce the ancient aspect of the writing. The Gigue, of the same form, contrasts by its dancing pace and its lively three-beat rhythm that the central Sicilian seeks to make more expressive" (Eurydice Jousse).