A Dance of Rhythms: A Musical Review of the Ballet World
06 February 2007
Dearest dance devotees, it’s me, your whimsical guide through the kaleidoscope of dance. This week, I feel the rhythm calling – the heartbeat of the ballet world! Yes, we are going to be diving into the magic of music that gives life, shape and soul to the intricate and breathtaking world of ballet.
Ah, the symphony of ballet! Think of a score that pulsates with emotion – the soft murmur of violins painting an ethereal scene, the driving power of drums building towards a crescendo of athleticism, the tender melodies whispering love and sorrow. These are not just sounds, they are stories! And the magic begins before the curtain rises, drawing us into the very heart of the story unfolding on stage.
As we embark on this journey, allow me to introduce a little secret: it’s not just the orchestra’s performance that matters. There’s a whisper of the stage within each piece of music. A little-known fact, darlings, but often the composer meticulously crafts the score, ensuring that each musical phrase is perfectly synchronized with a specific step or gesture. They are not just partners, but collaborators, shaping the very essence of each balletic performance.
Oh, let me not forget the visual symphony! A swirl of silk, the delicate glint of rhinestones, a blur of perfect grace - all choreographed to the intricate tapestry of musical notes. You see, the costume designer is also dancing in tune with the orchestra! A delicate pink tutu evokes the yearning and fragility of a Swan Lake princess, while a leotard to match, imbued with a fiery red, paints the stage with a fiery intensity of the fiery flamenco spirit. Such artistic alchemy!
There are, of course, so many dances waiting to be experienced. From the poignant elegance of Swan Lake’s “The Dying Swan”, where Tchaikovsky’s heartbreaking music guides the ballerina into the swan’s final surrender, to the playful charm of “The Nutcracker”’s Sugar Plum Fairy, where Tchaikovsky’s delicate score dances alongside the captivating twirls and pirouettes.
This week’s notable highlights in the realm of ballet music:
- A World Premiere in Vienna: The Vienna State Opera has commissioned a brand-new score by rising composer Annabelle Martin, for a captivating ballet piece titled "Dreams of a Crimson Sunset". Imagine a score that marries the dramatic intensity of the setting sun with a yearning for forgotten dreams, expressed through the lyrical language of dance.
- Royal Ballet’s Anniversary Celebration: The Royal Ballet is commemorating its 75th year with a remarkable program featuring timeless scores. We’re treated to excerpts from classics such as Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake, Stravinsky’s Firebird, and the iconic “Pas de Deux” from Don Quixote. The Royal Ballet has always excelled in showcasing the elegance of ballet and this program is bound to be an extraordinary celebration of their history.
- A Journey Back in Time with Prokofiev: The American Ballet Theatre brings to life the iconic story of “Romeo and Juliet” set to Prokofiev’s unforgettable score. This classic is being performed in its entirety, which allows us to appreciate how Prokofiev used music to highlight the raw emotion, love and despair of Shakespeare's immortal tragedy. This will undoubtedly be an extraordinary emotional journey through music, love, and loss.
- Rediscovering The Magic of Tchaikovsky: The Royal Opera House presents a special one-night performance of a seldom-seen ballet by the prolific Tchaikovsky. This lesser-known work titled “The Maidens’ Farewell” is sure to surprise audiences with its charming score, inspired by a poignant story about youthful sacrifice and bittersweet farewells. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to explore Tchaikovsky’s artistry beyond his more celebrated ballets!
This week, as the symphony of dance plays on, remember, every note holds a story, every movement has a soul. We’re not just watching dancers; we’re witnessing a magical convergence of music, motion, and artistry. As the curtain rises and falls, we step into the enchantment that is ballet, a world where the music makes us feel.
So, darlings, put on your dancing shoes, find your favorite piece of ballet music, and let the enchantment begin! Until next time, stay inspired and twirl happily!
Yours always in dance,
The Enchanting Muse
Oh, and dear reader, do allow me to indulge in a little fashion suggestion. You might try a bold crimson dress or perhaps a flowing white blouse that echoes the ethereal elegance of the ballet dancers. Don’t forget, we are a community of lovers of beauty, from music to fashion and everything in between! And don’t shy away from a vibrant scarlet lip to complete your chic ensemble.
*Please remember, for the love of art, it is most appropriate to refrain from photographing ballet performances, particularly those in traditional theatre spaces.
We must ensure these magical creations are cherished and savoured by everyone!