Composer

:

Igor Stravinsky

Genre

:

Chamber

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1932

Average_duration

:

17:49

Movement_count

:

5

Movement ....

Igor Stravinsky's "Suite Italienne" is a transcription of his ballet "Pulcinella," which was composed in 1919-1920. The suite was arranged for cello and piano by the renowned cellist Gregor Piatigorsky in 1932. The premiere of the suite took place in Paris in 1933, with Piatigorsky and Stravinsky himself on the piano. The suite consists of six movements, each of which is based on a different section of the original ballet. The first movement, "Introduzione," is a lively and playful piece that sets the tone for the rest of the suite. The second movement, "Serenata," is a slow and lyrical piece that showcases the cello's ability to sing. The third movement, "Aria," is a light and airy piece that features a delicate melody played by the cello. The fourth movement, "Tarantella," is a fast and frenzied dance that is full of energy and excitement. The fifth movement, "Minuetto e Finale," is a two-part movement that begins with a graceful minuet and ends with a lively and spirited finale. The final movement, "Gavotta con due variazioni," is a playful and virtuosic piece that features the cello and piano trading off intricate melodies and rhythms. The suite is characterized by its use of neoclassical elements, which were a hallmark of Stravinsky's style during this period. The music is light and playful, with a sense of humor that is reminiscent of the commedia dell'arte characters that inspired the original ballet. The suite also showcases Stravinsky's skill as a composer, as he is able to take the complex and intricate music of the ballet and distill it down into a form that is accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience. Overall, "Suite Italienne" is a delightful and charming work that showcases the talents of both Stravinsky and Piatigorsky. Its premiere in 1933 was met with critical acclaim, and it has since become a staple of the cello repertoire.

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