Rimsky-Korsakov - The Nightingale Captivated by the Rose (transcribed for cello and piano)

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s The Nightingale Captivated by the Rose is an early song, originally composed for voice and piano as the second number of his Four Romances, Op. 2. Written in 1866, when Rimsky-Korsakov was still in his early twenties, the song sets a poem by Aleksey Koltsov and already shows the composer’s gift for color, atmosphere, and lyrical line. Often described as an “Eastern Romance” or “Eastern Song,” the piece evokes the poetic image of the nightingale singing to the rose, a symbol of longing, beauty, and unanswered devotion.

This transcription for cello and piano is part of our Homage to Cassadó series. The original vocal line is transferred to the cello, where its lyrical contour, expressive inflection, and rhapsodic character speak naturally on the instrument. The piano part preserves the atmosphere of the original song while supporting the cello’s cantabile line.

Well suited for recitals, lessons, studio classes, and short concert selections, this transcription gives cellists an opportunity to explore vocal phrasing, expressive rubato, lyrical tone, modal color, and the intimate salon style of Rimsky-Korsakov’s early song writing.

ASTA level: 3