The csardas is a Hungarian folk dance characterized by a drastic tempo change: the first section begins with dirge-like slowness, and then abruptly switches to a fast, exhilarating tempo. This interpretation of the traditional dance by Vittorio Monti changes character several times throughout the course of the piece, not simply by means of tempo changes, but also by moving from a minor key to major and back again. One of the great things about Monti's Csardas is the artistic freedom given to the player, to stretch and bend the speed and the notes here and there, giving it a true "folk" feel; yet it has long been at home on the concert stage, wowing audiences with its brilliance and virtuosity, particularly in the breakneck speed of the final variation! This edition for violin and piano is edited by Richard Czerwonky. Published by Carl Fischer. Difficulty: ASTA grade 4