Carnival of the Animals: Aquarium for flute ensemble

In this movement from the “Carnival of the Animals,” we find ourselves inside the shimmering water of an aquarium full of graceful fish.

The melody is played by the piccolo, on top of high rolling ostinato runs in the flute parts, one in decuplets and the other in sextuplets.

These figures, plus the occasional glissando from the piccolo are evocative of a peaceful, dimly-lit aquarium.

Listen

Performed by the Quintessenz ensemble.