Composed in the late 19th century, François Borne’s Fantaisie brillante is one of the most representative works of the virtuoso flute repertoire. Based on themes from Georges Bizet’s opera Carmen it combines lyricism, technical brilliance, and a distinctly theatrical character.
This edition presents an arrangement for solo alto saxophone and string quartet, transferring the work into a new chamber music setting. The saxophone performs the original flute part without transposition, which requires a reconfiguration of the accompaniment, set two tones higher than the original. The arrangement respects the structure and character of the work, offering a new timbral perspective while preserving the essence of the original.
This arrangement was premiered by Ismael Arroyo (saxophone) together with the Cuarteto Iberia at the 52nd Maó Music Festival (Menorca, July 2025).
