This is a very special Habanera where the ambience places us in an authenticity proper of the late 1800's and early 1900's – the opening indication ('Tempo di habanera, tranquilo') should be adhered to, for it would be a mistake to take this piece too fast. The unusual scoring for Solo Violin and Solo Viola with string orchestra helps to achieve many subtle moods that are called for in this musical creation. The two string soloists are never in competition with each other, and neither are virtuosic elements desirable – rather the general tone production and delicate vibratos are of much more importance for these parts are full of sweetness and sensuality. The orchestral parts are relatively straight forward, although the musical dialogue should always be both sweet and clean. Curiously, all string forces can be contemplated, from the smallest chamber orchestral formation up to true symphonic forces.

Johnstone makes us remember the words of Manuel de Falla when he said that the Habanera is really none other than the 'Andalucian tango'. This piece (little over four minutes) makes a refreshing item for the orchestral leader and principal viola, or as an interesting 'encore' for two invited soloists after a performance of the famous Mozart 'Sinfonia Concertante'!