Jean-Baptiste Arban (1825-1889) was a French cornetist, conductor, and pedagogue, often regarded as one of the greatest brass players of the 19th century. His Variations on “The Carnival of Venice,” composed for cornet, is a virtuosic showpiece that has become a cornerstone of the cornet and trumpet repertoire. Based on the popular Italian folk tune “The Carnival of Venice,” Arban’s composition features a series of dazzling variations that showcase the performer’s technical prowess, including rapid scales, intricate arpeggios, and expressive phrasing. The work reflects Arban’s deep understanding of the instrument’s capabilities and his emphasis on precision, clarity, and musicality, as demonstrated in his influential method book for brass instruments.