Composer

:

Igor Stravinsky

Genre

:

Keyboard

Style

:

Keyboard

Compose Date

:

1912

Average_duration

:

33:30

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Petrushka is a ballet composed by Igor Stravinsky in 1911-12. It premiered on June 13, 1911, at the Théâtre du Châtelet in Paris, with choreography by Michel Fokine and set design by Alexandre Benois. The ballet tells the story of three puppets who come to life and engage in a love triangle, ultimately leading to tragedy. The ballet is divided into four movements. The first movement, "The Shrovetide Fair," introduces the setting of a bustling fair in St. Petersburg, Russia. The second movement, "Petrushka's Room," introduces the three puppets: Petrushka, a mischievous and rebellious clown; the Ballerina, a coquettish and flirtatious dancer; and the Moor, a brutish and aggressive warrior. The third movement, "The Moor's Room," depicts the Moor's attempts to woo the Ballerina, which ultimately leads to a confrontation with Petrushka. The final movement, "The Shrovetide Fair (Evening)," sees Petrushka's tragic demise at the hands of the Moor. Stravinsky's score for Petrushka is characterized by its use of folk melodies and rhythms, as well as its innovative orchestration. The composer employs a large orchestra, including a prominent role for the piano, to create a vivid and colorful sound world. The score also features numerous solos and duets for individual instruments, showcasing Stravinsky's skill as an orchestrator. In 1947-48, Stravinsky created a reduced version of Petrushka for chamber orchestra. This version, which premiered on November 8, 1947, in Paris, features a smaller ensemble and simplified orchestration, but retains the essential character of the original score. The reduced version has since become a popular alternative for smaller-scale productions of the ballet. Overall, Petrushka is a landmark work in the history of ballet and music. Its innovative score and vivid storytelling continue to captivate audiences over a century after its premiere.

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