Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker score is renowned for its vibrant orchestration, memorable melodies, and innovative use of instruments. The Nutcracker Suite includes several iconic pieces, such as “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” “Russian Dance, ” “Arabian Dance,” and “Waltz of the Flowers.” One of Tchaikovsky’s unique contributions to the score is his use of the celesta, a keyboard instrument with a bell-like tone, featured prominently in the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.” The music’s light, festive, and magical qualities have made it synonymous with the holiday season and a timeless classic in ballet.
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The Nutcracker ballet, composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, premiered in 1892 in St. Petersburg, Russia. It is based on Alexandre Dumas’ adaptation of E.T.A. Hoffmann’s story, The Nutcracker and the Mouse King. Although it initially received mixed reviews, The Nutcracker has become one of the most beloved and frequently performed ballets worldwide, particularly during the holiday season.
The Story
The story is set on Christmas Eve, where young Clara receives a magical nutcracker doll from her godfather, Drosselmeyer. That night, as Clara falls asleep, she dreams that the Nutcracker comes to life, leading her on an adventure. The Nutcracker battles the evil Mouse King and, with Clara’s help, defeats him. The Nutcracker then transforms into a prince and takes Clara to the enchanting Land of Sweets. There, they are greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy and entertained with dances from around the world, including the iconic “Waltz of the Flowers” and the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.” The story concludes with Clara waking up, unsure if it was all a dream or reality.
The Music
Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker score is renowned for its vibrant orchestration, memorable melodies, and innovative use of instruments. The Nutcracker Suite includes several iconic pieces, such as “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy,” “Russian Dance,” “Arabian Dance,” and “Waltz of the Flowers.” One of Tchaikovsky’s unique contributions to the score is his use of the celesta, a keyboard instrument with a bell-like tone, featured prominently in the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.” The music’s light, festive, and magical qualities have made it synonymous with the holiday season and a timeless classic in ballet.
The Music
The Story
The story is set on Christmas Eve, where young Clara receives a magical nutcracker doll from her godfather, Drosselmeyer. That night, as Clara falls asleep, she dreams that the Nutcracker comes to life, leading her on an adventure. The Nutcracker battles the evil Mouse King and, with Clara’s help, defeats him. The Nutcracker then transforms into a prince and takes Clara to the enchanting Land of Sweets. There, they are greeted by the Sugar Plum Fairy and entertained with dances from around the world, including the iconic “Waltz of the Flowers” and the “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy.” The story concludes with Clara waking up, unsure if it was all a dream or reality.
As part of our “Once Upon a Tale” theme for the 2024-2025 school year, EKS Music School’s senior faculties have selected The Nutcracker as our focus for October and November, leading up to the winter recital. This timeless musical tale offers a wonderful opportunity for students to engage with classical music and explore the power of storytelling through sound.
Listening Assignments
Instrumental
5 Videos
Description
The “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” happens in the Land of Sweets. After Clara and the Nutcracker Prince win the battle, the Sugar Plum Fairy, the land’s ruler, dances to thank them. Her dance is magical and graceful, showing the beauty of the enchanted kingdom
Description
The “March of the Soldiers” happens when Clara’s toy soldiers come to life. Led by the Nutcracker, they bravely march into battle against the Mouse King and his army. The soldiers try to protect Clara, and their march is full of energy and excitement.
Description
The “Waltz of the Flowers” happens in the magical Land of Sweets. Beautiful flowers come to life and dance gracefully to celebrate Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. Their swirling, colorful dance shows the beauty of nature and brings joy to the magical kingdom.
Description
The “Russian Dance” is part of the celebration in the Land of Sweets. Energetic dancers from Russia perform a fast and lively dance to entertain Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. The quick movements and exciting jumps make this dance one of the most fun in the ballet.
Description
The “Arabian Dance” is performed to entertain Clara and the Nutcracker Prince in the Land of Sweets. The dancers move slowly and gracefully, creating a mysterious and dreamy atmosphere. This elegant dance represents exotic lands and adds a magical, calming moment to the celebration.
Ballet Performances
5 Videos
Description
The “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy” happens in the Land of Sweets. After Clara and the Nutcracker Prince win the battle, the Sugar Plum Fairy, the land’s ruler, dances to thank them. Her dance is magical and graceful, showing the beauty of the enchanted kingdom.
Description
The “March of the Soldiers” happens when Clara’s toy soldiers come to life. Led by the Nutcracker, they bravely march into battle against the Mouse King and his army. The soldiers try to protect Clara, and their march is full of energy and excitement.
Description
The “Waltz of the Flowers” happens in the magical Land of Sweets. Beautiful flowers come to life and dance gracefully to celebrate Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. Their swirling, colorful dance shows the beauty of nature and brings joy to the magical kingdom.
Description
The “Russian Dance” is part of the celebration in the Land of Sweets. Energetic dancers from Russia perform a fast and lively dance to entertain Clara and the Nutcracker Prince. The quick movements and exciting jumps make this dance one of the most fun in the ballet.
Description
The “Arabian Dance” is performed to entertain Clara and the Nutcracker Prince in the Land of Sweets. The dancers move slowly and gracefully, creating a mysterious and dreamy atmosphere. This elegant dance represents exotic lands and adds a magical, calming moment to the celebration.
