Valse du Faux Pas

This piece dates from 2019, and was written for a friend. It is the first of a pair of original waltzes that were conceived from a common musical vantage point.

Set for guitar duo, the middle voices are closely spaced dissonances constructed off the instrument's open strings; while the melody, itself, contains no diatonic accidentals.

At first glance the contrasting key appears to be the parallel major, but in reality the sub-dominant provides a modal Lydian tonal center. The same is true with the 2nd waltz of the pair, "Valse à la Chaise." (Also published on this site.)

Despite this piece being conceived as a solo, I arranged it for duo to reap the benefits of the expanded textures which are readily available to the ensemble.

The designations of the two instruments follow the Monteverdian 'melody/accompaniment' model.

Note: minimal suggested fingerings are provided.

Constructive comments welcomed..

Musically,

SOLOMON LYTLE

Beaver, PA

August 2026

Should any ensemble wish to make a recording, please drop me a note in advance of purchase.