Composer

:

Camille Saint-Saëns

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Air

Average_duration

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11:52

Étienne Marcel: airs de ballet is a composition by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. It was composed in 1879 and premiered on January 24, 1880, at the Paris Opéra. The ballet consists of five movements and is approximately 25 minutes in length. The first movement, titled "Prélude," is a lively and energetic introduction to the ballet. It features a fast-paced melody played by the strings and woodwinds, with the brass section providing a strong rhythmic foundation. The second movement, "Danse des échevins," is a graceful and elegant dance that features a solo violin accompanied by the harp and pizzicato strings. The melody is light and airy, with a gentle rhythm that evokes the courtly dances of the Renaissance. The third movement, "Danse des archers," is a lively and rhythmic dance that features the full orchestra. The melody is playful and energetic, with a strong emphasis on the percussion and brass sections. The fourth movement, "Danse des blanchisseuses," is a charming and delicate dance that features a solo flute accompanied by the harp and strings. The melody is light and airy, with a gentle rhythm that evokes the image of laundry being hung out to dry on a sunny day. The final movement, "Danse des bourgeois," is a lively and festive dance that features the full orchestra. The melody is upbeat and celebratory, with a strong emphasis on the brass and percussion sections. The movement ends with a triumphant flourish, bringing the ballet to a rousing conclusion. Overall, Étienne Marcel: airs de ballet is a delightful and charming work that showcases Saint-Saëns' skill as a composer. The ballet's five movements each have their own distinct character and charm, making it a joy to listen to from start to finish.

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