The word “musette” refers to a type of bagpipe, an instrument that certainly influenced this piece. The left hand plays a droning fifth throughout, replicating the sound of a bagpipe. These open fifths should be consistently accented. The melody is also reminiscent of a bagpipe and proceeds without changing register very often. The frequent eighth notes require agile fingers and an even touch. Articulation is crucial for producing a bright, snappy melody. Students will have fun with this musette.
Author[]
Caroline Krause, Iowa Center for Research by Undergraduates Fellow