Ballet Music News 7323

Oh, darling, you simply *must* have a pink tutu! The very thought makes my heart flutter! It’s an undeniable classic – pink, delicate, the ultimate feminine charm. But no pink tutu is complete without the perfect leotard. Just imagine, darling, a soft whisper of ballet pink, perfectly matching the swirling, dancing dream of the tulle. And the feel, my dear, the *feel* of the silk, smooth and soft against your skin. It’s pure magic! Now, about today's musical offering. The date is etched in my mind: 09 July 2007. Such a magical date for a ballet-lover like me, isn't it? Let’s dance into the news, darlings!

A veritable explosion of dance news this week! A delightful tapestry woven from threads of choreography, music, and performance. Firstly, let’s raise a glass (of Champagne, darling, of course!) to the upcoming premiere of *Swan Lake* by the Royal Ballet! Imagine a majestic swan gliding on the water – that's what this ballet is like, only even more exquisite!

* This ballet, darling, is like a diamond gleaming under the spotlight. It's been performed countless times, yet its magic still captivates. The tale of love, betrayal, and transformation – the essence of classic storytelling – makes every performance as fresh and poignant as the first. * This *Swan Lake* has a truly magical twist! The company has collaborated with the legendary fashion designer, Vivienne Westwood, to create new costumes for the production! Now, you all know I *adore* Vivienne – her unique sense of style is simply divine. Just imagine what she'll create for the swan costumes. It’s like a featherlight touch on a canvas of grace and movement. Think, perhaps, layers of sheer tulle in hues of white and silver. * And oh, the music! Tchaikovsky’s score is just phenomenal. The melody glides so beautifully. Each note creates a miniature story of passion and sorrow, leaving me utterly enraptured. I already hear it swirling in my mind, dancing like the swan on a glassy lake. *Swan Lake*, my dear, is truly a testament to the enduring power of dance and music!

* We mustn't forget to mention, darling, the upcoming performance of the ballet *Romeo and Juliet*, by the New York City Ballet! This story is a whirlwind of passion, forbidden love, and, sadly, tragedy. And the music, oh, the music! Prokofiev’s score is just a powerful force. It weaves its spell upon the listener, evoking every emotion: love, pain, rage. The energy is simply breathtaking! * And, in news that will surely delight dance enthusiasts everywhere, we’ve got the release of a brand-new CD from the Mariinsky Theatre Orchestra. They’ve recorded their own rendition of the ballet *La Bayadère* – and it's divine! It’s simply magical! I have already pre-ordered mine. Can you imagine a beautiful dancer swirling in the centre stage, dressed in shimmering silks. It’s breathtaking!

Behind the scenes at the ballet company, it’s a buzz of activity, dear. New choreographers are rising to the top, with some remarkable and revolutionary approaches to classic choreography. There is a surge of energy in the dance world and we’re all absolutely thrilled!

* A few new names have sparkled with dazzling performances this season. The British choreographer, George Stagg, made a splash with a contemporary ballet, *Nocturne*, based on the music of Chopin. His approach, darling, is so fresh! It’s a mix of traditional balletic grace with contemporary flourishes. * We have seen some incredible talent from young choreographers! Take for example, the Scottish choreographer, Annabel Ross, whose piece *Whispers*, based on the music of Debussy, is pure, ethereal beauty. And a newcomer on the international stage, French choreographer Lucien Moreau, presented *Fable*, which blends classic elements with modern dynamism, inspired by the music of Bach! Such brilliant talents.

It’s a joyous era for ballet, darling! So grab your ticket and immerse yourself in the world of dancing grace, where every pirouette is a brushstroke on a canvas of beauty!

Music of the Week

Oh my darling, music has been the focus of all things fashion. In fact, it's inspired this entire week’s journalism and inspired me to dress in my best ballerina-esque get-up! Ballet music is a delightful treasure to be explored. The melodies of the composers are nothing less than works of art!

Speaking of legacy, darling, we simply must talk about Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. His music has left such an unforgettable mark on the world of ballet! Just the mention of his name evokes a wave of feeling. The beauty of his work, from *Swan Lake* to *The Nutcracker*, is a truly special experience. To feel the emotions his compositions evoke, is an overwhelming pleasure, darling, no matter how many times you hear them. There’s a special magic to Tchaikovsky.

Tchaikovsky’s music is certainly captivating but let’s venture further. Let’s dive into a deeper ocean of music, and talk about the composer Camille Saint-Saëns! It's a name you might hear at the theatre, at the ballet, and on radio stations. His works have a touch of magic and are captivatingly unique! Remember the piece *Danse Macabre*? Oh my, the excitement, the energy! It brings to mind all things dramatic, daring and decadent! There’s just such a theatrical quality to his compositions! And have you ever listened to *Carnival of the Animals*? I'm sure it's played on every child’s birthday!

Now, let’s have a conversation about Debussy’s *Clair de Lune*. That particular melody has a gentle sweetness that touches the heart. It’s just divine and evocative.

There are also many newer composers that are creating a vibrant, fresh ballet sound. For example, the English composer Thomas Adès, known for his intricate scores with a strong contemporary feel. He’s simply an innovator who has already created pieces that have inspired contemporary dance and ballet choreographers. And from Argentina, composer Osvaldo Golijov. He incorporates his cultural influences in such a captivating and delightful way – the blending of folk music and classic influences!

• The world of ballet music is so wide and rich. We're drawn to different pieces of music based on what we're feeling, what we're wanting to evoke! A feeling of romantic passion? We listen to *La Valse* by Maurice Ravel!
• If you want something lively and exhilarating, I'd suggest Stravinsky’s *The Rite of Spring*. That's one powerful piece that will get your feet tapping!
• In need of a bit of whimsical joy? Mozart’s *Eine Kleine Nachtmusik*, the title itself tells you everything you need to know!
• Feeling lost in a magical dream? Perhaps *Clair de Lune* will enchant you. I admit I have been a little obsessed with Debussy lately – it just brings out a bit of enchantment in every day life. And the emotions – just exquisite!

Music is indeed the perfect backdrop to the swirling tutus and graceful pirouettes. And remember darlings, the music of a ballet doesn't need to be traditional, no no no! Ballet dancers today can dance to the latest rock music, to the most enchanting world music – the beauty lies in the interpretation and movement. So open your ears, darling! Ballet is an invitation to explore music, emotion, and beauty in all its forms.

Oh, don't forget about that pink tutu – we'll discuss that next week. In the meantime, darling, you’ll find me listening to ballet music and, of course, twirling around in my most graceful fashion. Until next week – happy dancing!