Funiculi-Funicula

Description

Luigi Denza, a Neapolitan native, wrote Funiculi-Funicula in 1880 to commemorate the opening of the first funicular on Mt. Vesuvius, which was destroyed in the eruption of 1944. It became instantly popular. German composer Richard Strauss, while on a tour of Italy six years after it was written, heard the piece. Thinking it to be a Neapolitan folksong, he incorporated into his Aus Italien symphony. Denza was furious when he found out, and filed a lawsuit against Strauss. He eventually won, forcing Strauss to pay him a royalty each time the symphony was performed.

This arrangement makes a flashy and engaging program piece for string orchestra. It is also designed as a teaching piece, since 6/8 meter is not something most student string players enjoy dealing with. I have tried to incorporate many different bowing styles, some of which may seem strange at first but require legitimate playing skills which can be found in other concert literature.

It’s important to think of the piece as a dance, but a fast and light one. Notes of less than one beat in length which are not slurred should be played quite short, and generally off the string. On hooked notes, allow the bow to remain in motion and spring loose from the string, allowing the rhythm to propel itself and avoiding a “sticky” feel. Be especially attentive to dynamics, and maintain a steady tempo. A few fingerings are provided as suggestions.

Play this piece with a smile and a rollicking attitude!

Published by: String Instrument Specialists