Le Cygne, or The Swan, is the penultimate movement of Camille Saint-Saens’ 1886 suite, Carnival of the Animals. Most often played as a solo piece for cello with piano, the original version was scored for solo instrument and two pianos. It was the only movement for the Carnival that the composer allowed to be heard in public during his lifetime. This version is arranged as a duet for one Violin and one Viola.

Musicians at an advanced intermediate level and above will find this ideal for formal and informal performances. The melody is expressive and legato; the accompaniment is challenging in its constant semiquaver arpeggios. The overall performance time is around three minutes.

Teachers will enjoy using this arrangement as a fun way to help with expressive playing. The legato in both parts demand precise fingers.