Renowned 19th century operatic composer Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924) presented us with many melodic masterpieces. Tosca's "E lucevan le stelle", Madama Butterfly's "Un bel di, vedremo", Gianni Schicchi's "Oh! mio babbino caro" and Turandot's "Nessun dorma!" are familiar to most and deeply appreciated by music fans the world over.

Utilizing these themes I arranged "Puccini's Opera Arias" for the Euphonium Tuba Company Quartet's first recording in 2011. Not only can performers and audience enjoy these beloved melodies, it's also an excellent study for sectional and ensemble rehearsal and development.

(Sawako Yamazato)