October 30th, 2023: A Celebration of Ballet Music & Grace
As the world twirls on its axis, and the leaves begin their autumnal descent, a certain elegance hangs in the air. It's the time of year when our thoughts drift towards the ethereal beauty of ballet, a dance form that transcends mere movement and embodies artistry in its purest form. And what could be a more fitting soundtrack to this exquisite expression than the exquisite music composed for it?
From the majestic grandeur of Tchaikovsky's Swan Lake to the whimsical charm of Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring, ballet music is a captivating universe unto itself. It tells stories of love, loss, and triumph, all within the framework of intricate musical tapestry woven with the finest threads of emotion.
But what exactly makes this genre of music so captivating? Is it the intricate interplay of melodies and harmonies that mirrors the intricate movements of the dancers, or perhaps the masterful orchestrations that create an atmosphere both dramatic and dreamlike? Or maybe it's the sheer emotional range it encompasses, from the tender pathos of a mournful adagio to the vibrant joy of a jubilant pas de deux?
Today, I invite you to join me on a journey through the enchanting world of ballet music, to explore its nuances and delve into the heart of its captivating allure.
A History of Ballet Music
The roots of ballet music can be traced back to the Italian Renaissance, where dance became an integral part of courtly life. The earliest ballets were often accompanied by simple, often improvised, music that served as a backdrop to the elaborate movements of the dancers. This all changed, however, in the 17th century, with the rise of the French court ballet. Under the patronage of King Louis XIV, dance began to be treated with the same level of artistic seriousness as other art forms.
During this period, composers such as Jean-Baptiste Lully and Jean-Philippe Rameau wrote exquisite scores that reflected the elegance and grandeur of the French court. The influence of Baroque music, with its stately rhythms and elaborate ornamentation, is clearly evident in these compositions. As the ballet continued to evolve, so too did its music.
The Golden Age of Ballet Music
The 19th century saw a blossoming of ballet music that rivalled anything that had come before it. During this era, some of the most enduring masterpieces of the art form were created, each accompanied by a score that mirrored its unique beauty and complexity. The arrival of the Romantic ballet period, characterized by an emphasis on emotion, fluidity, and the expressive power of dance, further elevated the role of music in the performance.
Here are just a few of the most influential ballet composers from the 19th century:
- Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893): No discussion of ballet music would be complete without mentioning the name of Tchaikovsky. A true titan of the Romantic era, he composed scores that captured the essence of both tragedy and romance, none more so than his enduring masterpieces *Swan Lake*, *Sleeping Beauty*, and *The Nutcracker*. The lyrical melodies, haunting harmonies, and vibrant orchestration of these works continue to resonate with audiences around the world.
- Camille Saint-Saëns (1835-1921): This prolific composer wrote a number of significant ballets, but his most famous is undoubtedly *The Carnival of the Animals*. With its whimsical and imaginative use of musical imagery, *The Carnival of the Animals* has been a firm favorite with both dancers and audiences alike ever since its premiere.
- Richard Wagner (1813-1883): While Wagner is primarily known for his epic operas, he also wrote music for ballet. His influence on ballet music is evident in his use of rich orchestration and his exploration of powerful emotions. Perhaps the most notable ballet piece influenced by Wagner is **La Bayadère**. Composed by Ludwig Minkus, *La Bayadère* showcases a sumptuous and emotional soundscape, strongly inspired by Wagner's orchestrations and dramatic music. The piece is known for its famous "Kingdom of the Shades" ballet sequence which many balletomanes view as an iconic ballet work.
20th-Century Ballet Music
The 20th century witnessed a radical transformation in the world of ballet. Traditional styles were challenged, and new forms of expression emerged, all of which had a profound impact on ballet music. New approaches to harmony and rhythm, combined with an increasing use of atonal and serial techniques, pushed the boundaries of musical composition. It saw the rise of neoclassical ballet which favoured simplicity and clarity of movement with strong emphasis on pure dance forms, reflecting in its musical scores which prioritised minimalism.
Some notable composers who made their mark in this period:
- Igor Stravinsky (1882-1971): Perhaps the most influential composer of the 20th century, Stravinsky revolutionised ballet music with his daring and innovative scores. *The Rite of Spring*, with its groundbreaking rhythms and harmonies, remains a powerful and controversial work, both for its music and the challenging choreography. But don't mistake this for purely being an avant garde work, this era gave rise to another, softer piece by Stravinsky titled *The Fairy’s Kiss* which is far more playful and elegant with music reminiscent of waltzes and romances.
- Maurice Ravel (1875-1937): Although not primarily known for ballet scores, Ravel penned *Daphnis and Chloe* which proved to be one of his most significant and inspiring works for ballet. With its stunning orchestration, lyrical melodies, and captivatingly elegant themes, it captures the essence of idyllic love and sensuality with a remarkable and emotive depth.
- Dmitri Shostakovich (1906-1975): Another giant of the 20th century, Shostakovich wrote a number of significant ballet scores, most notably *The Age of Gold*, which brought his social and political messages into the medium. Though he never became a full-time ballet composer, the weightiness of his work transcended genres and lent its gravitas to ballet.
- Aaron Copland (1900-1990): While the American Copland may be most famous for works like Fanfare for the Common Man, his *Billy the Kid* and *Appalachian Spring* offer distinctly Americana flavour to ballet. His music is rich in folk themes, vibrant instrumentation and emotional depth and perfectly captured the pioneering spirit of the American west.
Ballet Music in the 21st Century
The music of today's ballet world continues to reflect the vibrant tapestry of the modern world. Composers are drawing on a diverse range of influences, from electronic music and experimental jazz to classical and contemporary styles. It's an era of fusion and innovation, where music serves as a dynamic and integral part of the dance experience.
With the rise of independent choreographers and the flourishing of dance companies in all corners of the globe, a diversity of styles and sounds have also begun to take their place on the ballet scene. From the pulsating rhythms of electronica in a modern re-imagining of a classical ballet to the unexpected, organic soundscapes created using instruments not typically found in the concert hall, the modern world of ballet music reflects our global, ever-evolving cultural landscape.
One contemporary ballet choreographer, whose musical taste transcends typical classical notions, is Wayne McGregor. This visionary creator of *Chroma* collaborated with Radiohead on this landmark production that defied many preconceived notions of ballet music, and pushed the boundaries of the genre.
Another captivating force in contemporary ballet is the work of choreographer Crystal Pite who creates both full length ballet scores in addition to dance productions and has partnered with musical artists like Owen Pallett and Max Richter on some truly moving scores.
The Importance of Ballet Music
The role of ballet music is far more than merely accompanying the dancers' movements. It provides a visceral, and often unspoken, dialogue with the audience, enhancing the narrative of the ballet through subtle melodic motifs and shifting emotional colours. It provides a sense of momentum to propel the story forward.
Music in ballet plays an even more significant role in communicating the choreographer's intentions, allowing the audience to interpret and feel the depth of the choreography, especially when dancers remain silent during the performance. Think of *Sleeping Beauty* and how Tchaikovsky's waltzing themes elevate the fairytale to epic grandeur. Consider how *Swan Lake's* romantic melancholy unfolds through Tchaikovsky's poignant score, mirroring the heroine's graceful transformation. These works showcase how ballet music is vital in providing emotional context to the dance, creating an evocative narrative for audiences.
Ballet Music in the Future
The future of ballet music is as bright and dynamic as the dancers themselves. We can expect to see even greater diversity in style, instrumentation, and cultural influences as composers continue to experiment and push boundaries. As our world becomes ever-more interconnected, so too will the realm of ballet music.
It's not merely a soundtrack; it is an integral aspect of ballet, one that gives a voice to the graceful stories, evocative emotions, and triumphant struggles that dance eloquently unfolds on the stage.
The perfect outfit for this special day?
Naturally, you'll need to reflect the ethereal grace of ballet, and this call for a fashion choice necessitates an answer steeped in beauty and a little touch of whimsy, Don't just dress for ballet - be dressed *as* ballet. A delicate pink tutu whispers tales of Swan Lake, a delicate rose silk ribbon around your neck. But a ballerina needs an everyday touch. Choose a classic, fitted leotard. Choose one that picks up the pinks and hues of the tulle - like a leotard in soft coral or a vintage blush pink that whispers ballet even in a modern world. Your hair should be a crown - loose, braided, tied with ribbon. And for shoes? Choose flats or something practical and easy, that allows you to flit from the theatre to the cafe and back again - ballet dancers know grace is a daily art form, on stage and off!