Six Dances from "The Nutcracker Suite"

Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky (1840 - 1893)

Tchaikovsky's ballet "The Nutcracker" is based on a fairy tale by E.T.A. Hoffman.  The suite, from which the six dances are taken, is part of a divertissement in the second act which is et in the enchanted palace of the Jam Mountain.

Little Clara is escorted there by her Prince Charming (formerly the nutcracker given to her as a Christmas present).  They recount their adventures and a feast is given in their honour, which features these famous dances.

The March opens the set with its striking military theme.  Staccato quavers introduce the Sugar Plum Fairy, whose melody is heard on the celeste (played here on Piano 1).  Her ethereal cadenza is shared between the two pianos.  Next we have the exuberant Russian dance, Trepak, with its whirling excitement, which contrasts effectively with the haunting Arab Dance which follows.  The sparkling brilliance of the Chinese Dance leads us to the famous Dance of the Mirlitons which, with its inimitable charm, has become a favourite encore.