Program Notes

The Charm Bracelet for chamber orchestra (1949) was originally composed by Waxman as a set of five short piano pieces for the young pianist, and dedicated to his young son, John. This symphonic version, newly arranged by Arnold Freed, is scored for chamber orchestra with the following instrumentation: flute, piccolo, 2 oboes, 2 clarinets, bassoon, 2 horns, 2 trumpets, trombone, timpani, percussion and strings.

The composer has given us a musical picture of the charms one might find on a bracelet and the first of the set, “The Two Shoes,” begins with an ostinato-like figure playing prominently over the introduction of the melody. It is a whimsical scherzo-like portrait.

“The Four Leaf Clover” is a waltz with a bittersweet flavor. The melody is introduced by the French Horn and then turned over to various solo winds and brass and then stated in the strings.

“The Little Soldier” is a playful march featuring brass and wind choirs. A flute solo introduces “The Golden Heart” and is then picked up by the string section. Of the set of five, it remains the most intimate in its sentiment.

“The Pony,” the most virtuosic of the set, is a lively romp with bi tonal suggestions running throughout. It makes full use of the various choirs of the orchestra and acts as a brilliant close to the suite.