Saint-Saëns, Camille: Introduction et Rondo capriccioso

Saint-Saëns added considerably to the violin repertoire: including two sonatas, three concertos and a number of small works with piano or orchestral accompaniment. That was partly as a result of his friendship with the Spanish violinist Pablo de Sarasate who advised him on what is technically possible on the violin. The composer's friendship with the violinist was also the reason for his penchant for Spanish colour which is clearly evident in 'Introduction et Rondo capriccioso', Op. 28 and in 'Havanaise'.