Ciacona in G minor

By Tommaso Antonio Vitali

It is true that this version is not the same as the familiar version of the so-called Vitali Chaconne; however, this is because the latter is actually an elaboration by Leopold Charlier of an earlier, simpler edition by Ferdinand David. Charlier added passages in higher positions, octaves and double...

-stops. The viola edition here is a transcription of the simpler David version. I can see why you were disappointed if you were looking for a viola version of the brilliant Charlier arrangement; however, don't blame this edition :-).

This is a truly terrible arrangement of a very good piece. I bought this figuring it would be the classic Vitali Chaconne arranged for viola by being dropped a fifth and with an extra flat; instead, I purchased an abomination. The majority of it is lowered by an octave with...

all chords and double stops removed, and it is still in g minor. Additionally, the accompaniment does not start before the viola: the viola and piano begin at the same time, and the viola's first note is not a chord! This arrangement is also significantly easier -- it never goes above fifth position, and all of the octaves have been removed. This version is a travesty: I adjure you not to buy it if you want the actual Vitali Chaconne. I repurchased this piece for violin and arranged it myself.