Composer

:

Virgil Thomson

Genre

:

Vocal

Style

:

Vocal Music

Compose Date

:

1931

Average_duration

:

5:33

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

La Belle en dormant is a ballet composed by Virgil Thomson in 1951. The ballet premiered on May 18, 1951, at the New York City Ballet, with choreography by George Balanchine. The ballet is based on the fairy tale Sleeping Beauty, and it consists of three movements. The first movement, titled "The Spell," begins with a mysterious and eerie introduction, which sets the tone for the rest of the movement. The music is characterized by dissonant harmonies and a slow tempo, which creates a sense of foreboding. As the movement progresses, the music becomes more intense, with the use of percussion and brass instruments. The movement ends with a dramatic climax, as the spell is cast on the sleeping princess. The second movement, titled "The Awakening," is a more lively and upbeat section of the ballet. The music is characterized by a fast tempo and a playful melody, which reflects the joyous moment of the princess's awakening. The movement features a solo violin, which plays a prominent role in the music. The movement ends with a triumphant finale, as the princess is awakened by the prince's kiss. The third and final movement, titled "The Wedding," is a grand and celebratory section of the ballet. The music is characterized by a majestic melody and a fast tempo, which reflects the joyous occasion of the wedding. The movement features a full orchestra, with the use of brass and percussion instruments. The movement ends with a grand finale, as the prince and princess are married. Overall, La Belle en dormant is a beautiful and enchanting ballet, with music that perfectly captures the magic and wonder of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale. Thomson's use of dissonant harmonies and playful melodies creates a sense of mystery and joy, which perfectly complements Balanchine's choreography. The ballet remains a beloved classic of the ballet repertoire, and it continues to be performed by ballet companies around the world.

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