Description
Orient et Occident, Op. 25
Camille Saint-Saëns (1835–1921)
Modern edition by David Whitwell (1937–)
Date: 1869
Instrumentation: Concert Band
Duration: 7:30
Level: 5
Notes on Saint-Saëns’ Orient et Occident
This original composition for band was composed for a gala evening of the Union Centrale des Beaux-Arts in October, 1869 which was concerned with the relationship of art and industry and featured an exhibition of oriental art. The composition was dedicated to his friend, Theodore Biais. A later performance, with the composer conducting, was given at the World Fair in Paris on October 21, 1878.
This modern edition by David Whitwell includes a few important additions which the composer made in later editions, including the addition of timpani.