Charlotte Sohy – Octobre op. 23 n°1 – Sheet music

In the programme for the concert of March 19, 1932 it indicates that the piece was premiered by the Cello Ensemble of Paul Bazelaire, a group of twenty-five cellists. This large number is surprising, to say the least, in view of the fact that the writing of the piece clearly shows that it was intended for a single cello with piano, as can also be seen in the original manuscript.

It is possible that Charlotte Sohy wrote it for her eldest daughter, Monique, a cellist. The piece is in the form of a lied. The first theme is melancholic and well suited to the title; the middle section is more animated.