SKU: P2.70021

Waltz for Betz (1999) is, as one might assume, a waltz dedicated to someone named Betz. It is a gentle, passionate ballad--Erik Satie by way of Henry Mancini--originally composed for solo piano as a musical Valentine's Day card. Waltz for Betz now exists in multiple arrangements for virtually every instrument: with piano accompaniment; with string quartet or string quintet accompaniment; and with string orchestra accompaniment. In 2006, it was released in its version for viola and string orchestra by the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra on the ABC Classics label in Australia, where it continues to enjoy frequent radio play. In 2009, violist Michelle LaCourse recorded Waltz for Betz on her CD, Chocolates--Music for Viola and Piano by James Grant, on the MSR Classics label. In 2011, it was recorded by Tim Buzbee in its version for tuba and piano and released on Albany Records. And in 2012, clarinetist William Helmers released Waltz for Betz in a version for clarinet and string quintet, on his Potenza Records release, High Autumn.