Septuor in E-flat Major Op. 65

The "Septet in E-flat Major, Op. 65" is a unique chamber music piece composed by Camille Saint-Saëns between 1879 and 1880. The work was created at the request of mathematician Émile Lemoine, founder of the chamber music society "La Trompette," who desired a piece that included the trumpet alongside strings and piano. Initially hesitant, Saint-Saëns eventually accepted the challenge and composed this remarkable work.

The septet is scored for the unusual combination of trumpet, two violins, viola, cello, double bass, and piano. It comprises four movements:

1. Préambule (Allegro moderato) – A solemn introduction featuring unison scales leading to the trumpet's entrance on a sustained E-flat.
2. Menuet (Tempo di minuetto moderato) – A movement blending Baroque elements with Romantic characteristics, featuring an elegant melody in the trio section.
3. Intermède (Andante) – The most Romantic of the movements, characterized by its lyrical and intimate nature.
4. Gavotte et Final (Allegro non troppo) – A lively conclusion combining the traditional gavotte rhythm with virtuosic piano passages, culminating in a brilliant fugue.

The complete work was first performed on December 28, 1880, and quickly gained popularity. Saint-Saëns himself was surprised by its success and later arranged the septet for piano trio, while his pupil Gabriel Fauré created a version for piano four-hands.

This edition presents the work in its original form and includes both the full score and parts, with alternative trumpet parts in low E-flat (original) and B-flat. Additionally, an informative introduction in English, French, and German provides insights into the work’s creation and historical context.