Composer

:

Erich Wolfgang Korngold

Genre

:

Ballet

Style

:

Ballet

Compose Date

:

1908

Average_duration

:

42:28

Der Schneemann is a ballet-pantomime composed by Erich Wolfgang Korngold in 1910. The plot revolves around a snowman who comes to life and falls in love with a young girl named Marie. The ballet is divided into three movements, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first movement, titled "Winter," sets the scene with a snowy landscape and introduces the snowman. The snowman is brought to life by a magical hat and scarf, and he begins to explore his surroundings. He encounters a group of children playing in the snow and is fascinated by their games. The snowman tries to join in, but his clumsiness causes him to fall over and break apart. The second movement, titled "Love," focuses on the snowman's relationship with Marie. The snowman is enchanted by Marie's beauty and grace, and he falls deeply in love with her. Marie is initially frightened by the snowman, but she soon comes to see him as a gentle and kind-hearted creature. The two dance together in a romantic pas de deux, but their happiness is short-lived. The third movement, titled "Spring," brings a change in mood as the snow begins to melt and the flowers bloom. The snowman realizes that he cannot survive in the warmth of spring, and he begins to melt away. Marie is heartbroken as she watches the snowman disappear, but she is comforted by the memory of their brief but beautiful love. Der Schneemann premiered in Vienna in 1910 and was an immediate success. The ballet's combination of pantomime, dance, and music was innovative for its time, and Korngold's score was praised for its lush melodies and evocative orchestration. The ballet has since become a beloved classic, with productions staged around the world. Overall, Der Schneemann is a charming and whimsical ballet that captures the magic of winter and the power of love. Its memorable characters and beautiful music continue to enchant audiences over a century after its premiere.

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