Concertino da camera (Ibert)

The Concertino da camera for alto saxophone and eleven instruments was written by Jacques Ibert in 1935. Ibert dedicated the work to saxophone pioneer Sigurd Raschèr,[1] who premiered the first movement in 1935. Later that year, Ibert completed the second movement, which was performed for the first time in its entirety by Raschèr in December 1935.[2]

The work is in two movements; the first, Allegro con moto, is lively and technically challenging and the second begins with a lyrical Larghetto, featuring soaring lines in the saxophone's upper register. A short cadenza links to the movement's concluding Animato molto. The concerto is distinctive for its large range requiring the use of the saxophone's top-tones.

The accompanying ensemble consists of flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, horn, trumpet, two violins, viola, cello, and double bass.

The piece shares similarities with his concerto for flute.