Listen to demos

We’re excited to announce a fresh, imaginative take on Camille Saint-Saëns’ The Swan, reimagined by Terry Vosbein with a gentle, flowing Bossa Nova groove. Blending lyrical romanticism with subtle Latin rhythms, it offers a respectful yet modern twist on a beloved classic.

The melody is perhaps one of the most beautiful tunes ever composed for the cello. Just one part of the suite “The Carnival of the Animals,” this short movement has developed a life of its own. There have been hundreds of recordings and many thousand performances. Most remain reasonably true to the original.

Highlights
Versatile Instrumentation – Written for solo cello with Bossa Nova guitar, clarinet, alto sax, and trumpet, with optional bass and percussion. Includes parts for many alternate instruments—mix and match to suit your group.

Flexible Performance Options – Works beautifully with just guitar and cello, a jazz rhythm section, or even string quartet.

Creative Freedom – Keep it as a Bossa Nova or transform it into soul, bluegrass, or any style you feel. Expressive interpretation of solo lines are welcome!

The melody is presented as originally composed, only altered to fit the new meter.

Whether you’re a classical musician looking for something new or a jazz player seeking fresh repertoire, The Swan in Bossa Nova offers endless possibilities.

Perform it, record it, and share your video. We will feature it on our website!

Included with purchase

Accompaniment recording

Full score
Solo cello
Solo violin
Solo viola

Guitar/Piano (just chord symbols)
Bass
Drum set
Percussion (bongos, claves)

Jazz ad lib solo parts in C, B-flat, and E-flat.

Part 1
Flute
Clarinet
Soprano sax
Violin

Part 2
Clarinet
English horn
Alto sax
Violin
Viola

Part 3
Clarinet
Soprano sax
Trumpet
Violin