Notebook
Prodigal Son | In The Spotlight
Today, the spotlight is on a ballet titled Prodigal Son. A pivotal production that marks the end of an era, it was premiered in 1929 by the Ballet Russes in their final Paris season, three months before the death of Diaghilev, marking the end of a uniquely collaborative and explorative period in ballet history.
Giselle: The Original Collaboration
Exploring the origins of the ballet, Giselle, including the first choreographers; Jean Coralli (and Jules Perrot), the early ambitions of the composer; Adolphe Adam, and whether there was a collaborative relationship between the two (or three).
Henry Mancini | 100
In loving memory of my favourite composer of all time, Henry Mancini, who would have turned the grand old age of 100 this year. Here’s to all the wonderful music he wrote, which still is, in my mind, completely unmatched.
(Including a Spotify playlist featuring some of his most famous works)
Rhapsody In Blue: 100 Years
One of the most celebrated and esteemed classical-jazz works of the 20th century- Rhapsody In Blue- was premiered at the Aeolian Hall in New York City, 100 years ago today!
A Cartoon Ballet | Ballerina on the Boat
A sweet ‘cartoon ballet’ that tells the story of a ballerina on a boat who saves everyone from a terrible storm.
Ballet Composer Profile: Igor Stravinsky | Part 3
“The trick is to compose what one wants to compose and to get it commissioned afterward.” - Igor Stravinsky
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