This beautifully arranged piece is technically not that difficult but challenges the muscians with its passion. While it is most beautiful with the piano accompianment, it can be played without. Either 1st or 2nd part translates well to other instruments. I performed this with my daughter. She played the lead (1st part) on violin. I played the 2nd on flute - with some octave changes to meet the range of the flute. There wasn't a dry eye in the room - at a rehearsal dinner.