Reference

Orchestral and solo repertoire for the Ophicleide. The place to find what is written for and about the instrument!

Original solo works:

G. Kummer, 'Variations for Ophicleide', Studio Music , London, very entertaining, very difficult introductions and variations, c. 10mins,
J. Demersseman, 'Introduction and Polonaise', Richault/Billaudot, Paris, very challenging as written for Bassoon as well as Ophicleide, version available with string quartet accomp.(I am told!), c.8mins,
H. Klose, 'Air Varie', Billaudot, Paris, Entertaining piece of medium difficulty, c.10mins
D. Dagnelies, 'Fantasie Variee', Kalmus, New York, Again a bassoon/Ophicleide piece with theme and several variations, very difficult, c.12 mins

Do you know of any original compositions for Ophicleide? I would love to hear of them, please contact me at nabyrne [AT] aol.com.

V. Caussinus

Described by Berlioz as the only player "proficient" on the Ophicleide in Paris(Memoirs,P.405) Caussinus' 'Solfege-Methode pour L'Ophicleide-Basse' incorporates scales,arpegios,ornaments,duets and studies in two complete albums. The technical demands of the studies, and fluency required in the routines and duets, are testament to the virtuosity of Caussinus and a few skilled contemporaries.

V. Cornette (1795-1868)

Composer,Conductor,Organist,Writer and Trombonist in various Legions of the Garde Nationale. Wrote several methods for various instruments including flute(1855), flageolet(1841/55), accordion(1852/54), Saxhorn family(1862?) and many others. Wrote several methods for Ophicleide(1835/54/61)

Be(e)rr ?

Schiltz

Further information on the above methods will be forthcoming.

For a Halari fingering chart for Ophicleide in C click here.