Piano pieces by Mel Bonis arranged for oboe & piano

 “When I first encountered the piano music of Mel (Mélanie Hélène) Bonis (1858-1937), I was immediately captivated by the colours, the craftsmanship, the subtle storytelling, and the intentionality of detail that I was hearing.” This collection of short works, arranged by Montréal-based oboist (and multi-instrumentalist) Jonathan Werk, is a brilliant recapturing of Bonis’ unique character. It includes three short piano pieces cleverly arranged for the oboe: Menuet, op. 14; Eglogue, op. 12; and Papillons [Butterflies], op. 28. Each movement is around two minutes and make wonderful additions to a recital program.

The first selection is a classic Menuet and Trio format with a unique flavour. Jonathan calls it “an "ugly-duckling"-ness that resonates with me strongly as an oboe player, existing simultaneously as a duck and as a swan.”  On the pastoral and Serene Eglogue, Jonathan writes, “The oboe is often used in orchestral writing as the voice of a shepherd, and it felt natural that the longing sustain of Bonis' pastoral melody would suit being played by an oboe.”

The final movement, Papillons [Butterflies], depicts “flocks of literal butterflies darting around our heads, as well as metaphorical butterflies fluttering inside us as we react with love and fear to the riches of the world around us.”

Duration: 3 movements, approx. 2-3 minutes each

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