Onslow string quintet, op. 19 (and ops. 17-18) - incorrect instrumentation
Posted: Mon May 09, 2016 7:54 pm
The description of this work follows New Grove and other sources, saying its for 2 violins, viola and 2 cellos. Based on the first edition's title page and the labeling of the parts, they're all wrong.
The piece itself says it's for either: 2 violins, viola, cello and double bass OR: 2 violins, 2 viola and double bass. (The alternate viola part is labeled "alto violoncello" - but it's clearly in the viola clef throughout.)
Unlike Onslow's later quintets (which do have 2 cellos), there is no indication that this piece was intended for 2 cellos. The same is true for both Op. 17 and Op. 18, which have the same instrumentation.
The piece itself says it's for either: 2 violins, viola, cello and double bass OR: 2 violins, 2 viola and double bass. (The alternate viola part is labeled "alto violoncello" - but it's clearly in the viola clef throughout.)
Unlike Onslow's later quintets (which do have 2 cellos), there is no indication that this piece was intended for 2 cellos. The same is true for both Op. 17 and Op. 18, which have the same instrumentation.