JAVS Summer 2026

Young Girls,” the upper voice of the original viola sextet is played by the solo viola part with the piano filling out

the harmonies of the remaining voices (see Figure 7). The most complex variety of viola techniques occurs

Figure 7. Mystic Circle of the Young Girls.

between rehearsal numbers 135 and 137. The rapid changes of orchestration alternate between pizzicato strings, bowed ponticello strings, tenuto oboe/English horn lines, and French horns marked cuivrez and bouché. To approximate these quick and noticeable

timbre changes, the solo viola part must switch between pizzicato, tenuto bowing, and double-stopped ponticello passages (see Figure 8). This passage concludes with an octave glissando up to a high C-sharp.

Figure 8. Ritual Action of the Ancestors.

The “Danse Sacrale” is the denouement of the preceding rituals, ceremonies, and processions. Again, the piano part fulfills many roles in this arresting musical conclusion. The timpani underpin the constantly changing meter of the final dance. These percussion downbeats are answered by the woodwind, brass, and string ensemble, and the piano assumes both functions through its wide register. The viola contributes double stops, harmonics, and repeated down-bows that increase the performative drama. With large leaps, dynamic shifts and surges, the viola and piano duo seek to recreate the principal dancer’s convulsions, culminating in her demise and the end of the work.

Premiere, Recording, and Publication A working draft of our new edition was finalized in the summer of 2024, with the world premiere in the fall of 2024 in Auer Hall at the Jacobs School of Music. Dr. Arakelyan and I recorded our transcription in July of 2025 with Azica records, produced by Alan Bise. This recording will support the publication and dissemination of the edition. The printed edition is published and distributed by Songburd Music.

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