Llegenda i Tarantel·la (Legend and Tarantella), for violin and piano

The works Llegenda and Tarantel·la were written in 1929, originally for cello and piano. At that time, Margarita Orfila resumed her compositional work after a few years dedicated to the family due to the birth and upbringing of her five children. These are works of maturity, composed when the author had already consolidated prestige in the Catalan music scene. They were premiered by the composer herself at the piano and her son Francisco Alfonso Orfila at the cello, on May 11, 1941, at the Municipal School of Music of Barcelona. Critics praised the inspiration of the works, as well as the broad technique and vigorous temperament of the young cellist. Orfila’s chamber music was well known within his circle and enjoyed great acceptance. In 1959, ​​renowned musicians such as the violinist Jaume Llecha and the pianist Sofía Puche performed the version for violin and piano of Llegenda i Tarantel·la in concert in Barcelona, along with other works by the composer.

Llegenda, also known as Impressió (Impression) or Elegia (Elegy), has a genuine Mediterranean light; Its main melody is sung and fluid and contrasts with a central section built on a popular Catalan motif. Tarantel·la, true to its name, has a spirited and light character, typical of the dance originating in southern Italy. It has lyrical moments and rich modulations, captivating the listener until culminating in a vibrant and energetic finale.