An Evening in France

Enjoy these French classics and originals!

Bastille Day is just around the corner, so why not take a trip to France? Check out these French classics and French-inspired originals that will make you feel like you’re spending the day in France!

(Titles marked with an * are playable on lever harp.)

*The Clair de Lune Book

by Darhon Rees-Rohrbacher

I had to start this list with my absolutel favorite French composer, Claude Debussy. “Clair de Lune” is of course one of his most famous works and sounds absolutely beautiful on the harp. This book by Darhon Rees-Rohrbacher includes a solo arrangement for both lever and pedal harp, as well as duet arrangements with flute and violin. These versions, slightly simplified from the original piano solo, fit easily in the hands while retaining the integrity and flow of the original work.

Je te Veux

arr. Valerie Saint Martin

Somehow I had never heard this beautiful waltz by French composer Erik Satie until now! It is absolutely gorgeous, melodic, and makes you feel like you’re in a French film having the time of your life. This would be a wonderful new staple to add to your wedding repertoire.

*Flower Duet

arr. Sylvia Woods

You can’t go wrong with this opera classic! From the 1883 French opera Lakmé by romantic-era composer Leo Délibes, this lovely melody is known worldwide and is perfect for just about about any occasion.  

*Great French Composers for Folk Harp

by Sunita Staneslow 

Fourteen of the most well-known selections from French repertoire are included in this book by Sunita Staneslow. Most are traditional French tunes, but at the end of the book Staneslow includes some simplified excerpts of beloved works like Ravel’s Pavane and Debussy’s Rêverie. The book concludes with a repertoire staple piece, Première Gymnopédie by Erik Satie. 

La fille aux cheveux de lin

arr. Harriet Adie

This beloved piece by Debussy has always meant a lot to me and has become a staple in my repertoire. Harriet Adie’s version is for pedal harp and oboe. It’s a gorgeous duet for wedding occasions, background events, and more. The oboe floats beautifully over the harp part. 

Barcarolle

arr. Meinir Heulyn

This piece is a must if you’re looking to add some peppiness to your gig book. The cheerful melody by Jacques Offenbach is from his French opera The Tales of Hoffman. The large rolled chords and stately melody make this arrangement by Meinir Heulyn sound impressive to the listener and more challenging than it really is. 

*French Impressions

by William Mahan

This collection of original works by William Mahan contains lyrical melodies that capture the essence and ambiance of France. Every piece is romantic and makes you feel like you’re performing the score of a famous French film. My personal favorite from the collection is “The Windows of Paris.”

*Alouette

arr. Meinir Heulyn

My grandpa used to sing this song all the time when I was younger, so I had to include it on this list. It’s a traditional French children’s song with a charming sing songy melody. Only one-page long, this is an easy add to your gig book!

*Valse dans les Vignes

by Nadia Birkenstock

What a sweet, magical original work this is by Nadia Birkenstock. Inspired by the lush and rolling vineyards of Alsace in France, this piece evokes a feeling of euphoria through its harmonies, use of grace notes, and classical elements. 

*Dancing Through Paris

by Alexandra Genova

Alexandra Genova’s original compositions are always welcome additions to my gig book. You really can imagine strolling the streets of Paris while playing this piece. Its whimsical nature and contrasting sections are really lovely.

*Frère Jacques

arr. Valerie Saint Martin

Everyone knows this famous French nursery rhyme. This arrangement by Valerie Saint Martin is the perfect happy-go-lucky solo for the advanced beginner.

Fantasie on Ravel’s Introduction and Allegro

by Cindy Horstman

This unique arrangement by Cindy Horstman creates a jazz twist on French composer Maurice Ravel’s classical harp standard. She borrows themes from the original work in 6/8 time creating a fun, lilting vibe that adds a pleasant listening experience for both the harpist and the listener.