Volpe Two Pieces, for Double Bass & Piano

Arnold Volpe (1869-1940), Russian-born violinist and conductor, was a pupil of Leopold Auer in St. Petersburg. In 1898 he emigrated to New York City and, as a conductor, founded many musical organizations. Later, he initiated similar projects in Kansas City and Miami.

During the latter part of his life and until his death, Volpe conducted the University of Miami Symphony Orchestra. The Orchestra was approximately one-half student and one-half professional. His wife, Marie Volpe, was manager of the University of Miami Symphony for many years until it became the professional Miami Philharmonic in the mid 1960's. With the professional contacts of the Volpes many of the world's greatest artists appeared with the UM Symphony.

These short pieces were originally published for violin and piano in 1905 and 1918 respectively and were dedicated to Alfred Pochon (Cavatina) and Mischa Elman (Chant d' Amour).

The double bass is written for solo tuning. However, the bassist may play the cello part and use orchestra tuning.