About the Composition

Boccherini composed his String Sextets op. 23 in 1776 for Infante Don Luis Antonio Jaime de Borbón y Farnesio of Spain. These six pieces for the unusual combination of two violins, two violas, and two cellos delightfully combine the energy and ornamentation of the late Baroque style with the structure of early classicism. The light, bounciness of the fourth sextet of the set, in f minor, shows off the ensemble with lovely melodies across all parts and is very well suited for the capabilities and range of the modern flute choir. This arrangement preserves the key of the original and should emulate the crisp lightness of the string ensemble. In the 1776 score, grace notes are written in with the slash through the stem. However, in Boccherini’s day, both the quick acciaccatura and the slower appoggiatura were in use; performers are therefore encouraged to use either or both. Enjoy!

This is a digital version of the piece that you can download as a PDF and print. If you’d prefer a physical copy that will be shipped to you, click here.