Composer

:

Malcolm Arnold

Genre

:

Ballet

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1953

First Performance

:

Jul 19, 1953

Average_duration

:

31:31

Homage to the Queen, Op. 42 is a ballet composed by Malcolm Arnold in 1953. The ballet was commissioned by the Royal Ballet to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The plot of the ballet revolves around the life of Queen Elizabeth I, who is portrayed as a powerful and independent woman. The ballet is divided into three movements. The first movement, titled "The Queen's Youth," depicts the early years of Queen Elizabeth I. The music is lively and energetic, reflecting the youthful spirit of the queen. The second movement, titled "The Queen's Reign," portrays the queen's reign as a powerful and influential leader. The music is grand and majestic, reflecting the queen's authority and power. The final movement, titled "The Queen's Legacy," depicts the queen's legacy and the impact she had on England. The music is reflective and nostalgic, reflecting the queen's lasting influence. The ballet premiered on June 2, 1953, at the Royal Opera House in London. The choreography was by John Cranko, and the sets and costumes were designed by John Piper. The ballet was well-received by audiences and critics alike, and it has since become a staple of the ballet repertoire. One of the characteristics of Homage to the Queen, Op. 42 is its use of traditional English folk melodies. Arnold incorporates these melodies into his score, giving the ballet a distinctly English flavor. Another characteristic of the ballet is its use of brass and percussion instruments, which give the music a bold and powerful sound. Overall, Homage to the Queen, Op. 42 is a fitting tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and her predecessor, Queen Elizabeth I. The ballet celebrates the strength, power, and influence of these two remarkable women, and it remains a beloved work of the ballet repertoire.

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