Composed in France over a century ago these three short pieces are ideal for the intermediate bassist. The style is lyrical tonal and approachable offering interesting study or concert repertoire with lively supportive and effective accompaniments. Parade is lively and rhythmic remaining in bass clef throughout; Cantabile is melodic and dramatic offering cantabile and musical challenges in equal measure and Menuet Varie has lyrical and rhythmic contrasts and is the most challenging of the three. Ratez was a fairly prolific composer and these pieces were dedicated to M. Charpentier Professor of Double Bass at the Paris Conservatoire. These piecesare popular with students and teachers alike.