Composer

:

Richard Strauss

Genre

:

Ballet

Style

:

Ballet

Compose Date

:

1912 - 1914

First Performance

:

May 14, 1914

Average_duration

:

43:57

Josephs Legende is a ballet composed by Richard Strauss in 1914. The plot of the ballet is based on the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors. The ballet is divided into four movements, each depicting a different scene from the story. The first movement, titled "The Dream," depicts Joseph's dream of his brothers bowing down to him. This movement is characterized by dreamy, ethereal music that builds to a dramatic climax as Joseph's brothers become angry and jealous. The second movement, titled "The Coat," depicts Joseph receiving his coat of many colors from his father. This movement is characterized by playful, joyful music that reflects Joseph's happiness and his father's love for him. The third movement, titled "The Temptation," depicts Joseph being tempted by Potiphar's wife. This movement is characterized by sensual, seductive music that reflects the temptation that Joseph faces. The fourth and final movement, titled "The Triumph," depicts Joseph's triumph over his brothers and his rise to power in Egypt. This movement is characterized by triumphant, celebratory music that reflects Joseph's victory. Josephs Legende premiered in 1914 in Paris, with choreography by Léonide Massine and sets and costumes by Boris Bilinsky. The ballet was not well-received at its premiere, with critics finding the music too complex and the choreography too avant-garde. However, the ballet has since become a classic of the repertoire, with its lush, romantic music and dramatic storytelling. Overall, Josephs Legende is a powerful and emotional ballet that tells the story of Joseph and his journey from a beloved son to a powerful ruler. The music is rich and complex, with lush orchestration and soaring melodies that capture the drama and emotion of the story. The choreography is innovative and expressive, with bold movements and striking visual imagery that bring the story to life on stage.

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