The chamber quartet version of España reimagines Waldteufel’s waltz for a mixed ensemble of violin, violoncello, vibraphone (with castanets) and marimba. The strings assume the melodic and cantabile lines, while the mallet instruments provide harmonic structure and rhythmic definition.

In this setting, the castanets retain a clearly exposed and character-defining role. Rather than blending into the texture, they articulate the dance-like gestures with precision and energy, reinforcing the regional colour suggested by the title.

The reduced yet diverse instrumentation allows for a transparent chamber sound while preserving the elegance and buoyancy of the original waltz. Developed for and performed by Ensemble Idiochord, this version complements the percussion quartet / quintet and large percussion ensemble versions, each offering a distinct instrumental perspective on the work.