Composer

:

Alexander Glazunov

Genre

:

Ballet

Style

:

Ballet

Compose Date

:

1896 - 1897

First Performance

:

1898

Average_duration

:

93:08

Movement_count

:

52

Movement ....

Raymonda is a three-act ballet composed by Alexander Glazunov in 1898. The plot revolves around the titular character, Raymonda, a young noblewoman who is engaged to Jean de Brienne, a knight who is away on a crusade. While Jean is away, Raymonda is courted by Abderakhman, a Saracen knight who tries to win her heart by force. However, Jean returns just in time to save Raymonda and defeat Abderakhman in a duel. The ballet premiered on January 19, 1898, at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. It was choreographed by Marius Petipa, the legendary ballet master who also choreographed classics such as Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty. The music of Raymonda is known for its lush melodies, intricate rhythms, and colorful orchestration, which showcase Glazunov's mastery of the Romantic style. The ballet is divided into three acts, each with its own distinct character and mood. The first act takes place in Raymonda's castle, where she is celebrating her engagement to Jean. The second act is set in a Saracen camp, where Abderakhman tries to seduce Raymonda with a series of exotic dances. The third act takes place in a grand hall, where Jean and Abderakhman engage in a dramatic duel for Raymonda's hand. One of the most notable features of Raymonda is its use of national dances and folk music. Glazunov incorporates elements of Hungarian, Spanish, and Middle Eastern music into the score, giving the ballet a rich and diverse sound. The choreography also features a variety of dance styles, including classical ballet, character dance, and pantomime. Raymonda is often praised for its grandeur and spectacle, as well as its romantic storyline and memorable music. It has been performed by ballet companies around the world, and remains a beloved classic of the ballet repertoire.

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