Can anyone tell me please what grade equivalent Saint Saen's Danse Macabre is? The original version that is, not any kind of abridged version.

Has it ever been on an exam syllabus?

Many thanks.

The true 'original' version is the one for violin and orchestra, which includes scordatura (retuning, in this case the E string down to E flat), which rules out use in exams for two reasons!

Saint-Saens did make a violin-and-piano transcription himself, although I'm not aware of it ever having been on an exam syllabus. It's not especially challenging, perhaps somewhere around Grade 7 in standard.

Why do you ask?

Thanks Owainsutton. I meant the violin and piano transcription rather than the orchestral version. Grade 7 sounds about right, thank you.

We were looking for a showy sort of piece which wasn't too technically demanding which would be popular with an audience who didn't necessarily appreciate classical music and which can be perfected quite quickly. This seems to fit the bill nicely.

It's a really good, fun showpiece. Yes, a grade 7 violinist would be be able to make a good job of it.
Needs a pianist with quick reactions

Yes, great choice for such a situation, because so many people know it as 'The one from that programme with Alan Davies'!

I also think this piece is a 'great idea', might even learn it myself at some point soon, shall I also wear a 'mask' when I play it?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gIGLYJvGwTQ...feature=related

Aha! I know who the link is without even pressing it

You shouldve been there...

trying to 'rub it in'? are we?

Yes
(is it working?)

nope

Sat at the front within bow-striking distance in a small cocktail lounge with only about 50 other people there...

It was originally written as a song

Really? As voice and piano or with orchestra? Do you know if it's available as I know someone who would love to sing it. Which voice, by the way?

Voice and piano. Which voice not specified, although I've heard a very good baritone do it.

Available on IMSLP:

here

Very excited about this!! I knew nothing about it being a song, and its one of my favourite violin pieces
Have now spent all morning listening to it, printing out the music, and planning who I can make sing it....

Video here!

Brilliant, thankyou