Johann Strauss Jr Music From The Ballet Graduation Ball

Publication date 1950
Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Antal Dorati Conductor
Johann Strauss Jr's Music from the Ballet Graduation Ball is a charming and whimsical work of music that was first performed in 1889. The ballet, which was created by Strauss himself, is a lighthearted portrayal of the end-of-year graduation ball of a Viennese finishing school. The music is characterized by Strauss's signature Viennese waltzes, polkas, and marches, along with his playful and witty musical humor.
The score of Graduation Ball is notable for its use of various instruments, particularly the strings, woodwinds, and percussion. Strauss's arrangements are known for their lightness, precision, and musical brilliance, with the music carrying the listener from one end of the emotional spectrum to the other. The overture, for example, is a stunning introduction to the music, setting the tone for the entire ballet with its energetic and celebratory rhythms.
One of the most renowned pieces in the score is the "Pupil's Dance," a playful and lively dance that portrays the joy and innocence of the young students enjoying their last ball. The melody is light and bouncy, with Strauss using strings and woodwind instruments to create a happy, carefree atmosphere. Another well-known piece is the "Polka-Mazurka," a beautiful and tender waltz that is both delicate and romantic.
The score features a number of other charming pieces that capture the spirit of the Viennese ballroom. The "Pfefferminz Polka" or the "Peppermint Polka" is a fun and lively piece that uses percussion and brass instruments to create a festive, upbeat atmosphere. The "Chinese Galop" is another widely recognized piece from the ballet, featuring a melody that is both exotic and catchy.
Strauss's music in Graduation Ball is notable for its wit and humor. Throughout the score, Strauss uses musical humor to add levity and entertainment to the ballet. The "Pas de Quatre de Chopin," for instance, is a whimsical dance in the style of Chopin's music, with Strauss incorporating his own characteristic twists and turns that result in a light-hearted comedic effect.
In summary, Johann Strauss Jr's Music from the Ballet Graduation Ball is a delightful example of Viennese music that is characterized by lively melodies, intricate harmonies, and playful touches of humor. The music is a testament to Strauss's remarkable talent as a composer, and the ballet remains a beloved work of art that continues to enchant audiences to this day.
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