Review

Pietro Mascagni
Intermezzo: from "Cavalleria Rusticana"

Arranged by D. Jones

2 b-flat trumpets, horn in F, trombone, tuba

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Publisher: Cherry Classics Music
Date of Publication: 2023
URL: http://www.cherryclassics.com

Score and parts

Primary Genre: Brass Ensemble - 5 brass

The Intermezzo from Italian composer Pietro Mascagni’s romantic opera Cavalleria Rusticana or “Rustic Chivalry,” is a beloved and timeless classic, known not only in the operatic world but also for its memorable use in iconic films such as Raging Bull and The Godfather Part III. Daniel Jones has skillfully arranged this lush orchestral work for brass quintet, capturing its emotional depth and lyrical beauty.

Ideal for weddings or student recitals in need of a slower, expressive piece, this arrangement highlights musicality and ensemble blend. Scored for standard brass quintet—two b-flat trumpets, horn, trombone, and tuba—the piece maintains the primary melodic material in the first trumpet, while also thoughtfully distributing expressive lines throughout the ensemble. Jones’ careful and thoughtful writing ensures that each player contributes meaningfully to the musical texture, resulting in a rich and balanced performance.

Suitable for medium-advanced performers, the parts are clearly notated and easy to read. The trombone part is written entirely in bass clef and is very accessible. Although the technical demands are moderate, players should be aware that the piece is fairly taxing, with minimal rests due to the dense and sustained scoring.

Intermezzo from Cavalleria Rusticana for brass quintet was donated for review by Cherry Classics Music and is available at www.CherryClassics.com.  Written-pitch instrument range: combined b-flat trumpets g to a2, horn, e to a1, trombone c to f1, tuba C (optional FF) to f.