This course explores the background and the groundbreaking stylistic features of Stravinsky’s most famous works: Firebird, Petrushka, The Rite of Spring, and Les Noces. Considered the epitome of early 20th-century composition, these works defined musical syntax for generations of composers. Les Noces, the least known of these works, is a ballet cantata, calling for four pianos, 11 percussionists, four singing soloists, mixed choir, and corps de ballet. Rarely performed due to its difficulty and complexity, it will not only be a major focus of our course, but the UA School of Dance and Fred Fox School of Music Choral Department will partner for historic performances of it at Stevie Eller Dance Theatre. Class participants, in addition to gaining a thorough understanding of these works and their socioartistic significance, will be treated to behind-the-scenes access during the rehearsal process and given a complimentary ticket to a performance of Les Noces.
