#tchaikovsky foundation

[beyourselfchulanmaria]

Tchaikovsky Symphony No 7 (by Tchaikovsky Foundation with Pyotr Klimov)

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky's Symphony in E-flat, was commenced after Symphony No. 5, and was intended to be his Sixth Symphony. Tchaikovsky abandoned this work in 1892, only to reuse the first movement in the single-movement Third Piano Concerto, Op. 75, first performed and published after his death in 1895. A reconstruction of the original symphony from the sketches and various reworkings was accomplished during 1951–1955 by Soviet composer Semyon Bogatyrev, who brought the symphony into finished, fully orchestrated form and issued the score as Tchaikovsky's "Symphony No 7 in E-flat major". In 2005, a second reconstruction of the symphony, commissioned by the Tchaikovsky Fund, was completed by Russian composer Pyotr Klimov. It had its first public performance at the Tchaikovsky State House-Museum in Klin, near Moscow, by Symphony Orchestra of Russia led by conductor Tomomi Nishimoto 西本智実, on June 5, 2006, as shown in this video.

00:20 First Movement: Allegro brilliante 13:19 2st Movement: Andante 23:20 3rd Movement: Final Allegro Maestoso 36:30 Tchaikovsky:Andante Cantabile (encore)

[rolflovesclassicalmusic]

Concert review, ★★★★, Alexandra Dovgan, Leia Zhu, Paavo Järvi, Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich @ Tonhalle am See, Zurich, 2023-04-01 (Orpheum Foundation) — Chopin: Piano Concerto in F minor, op.21, B.43, CT 48; Scriabin: Étude in D♯ minor, op.8/12 (encore); Tchaikovsky: Violin Concerto in D major, op.35; Hindemith: Sonata for Solo Violin op.11/6 (encore: III. Finale, Lebhaft); Ravel: "La Valse", poème choréographique pour orchestre, M.72

Blog post #645

[blackmoonlightexpress]

Luo Yunxi Appreciation Master Post: How can someone be so multi-talented?!

In case you did not already know, here are LYX's many talents. It's insane how many different things he can do at a near-professional level beyond acting!

1. Dance/Ballet

LYX graduated from the Shanghai Theatre Academy majoring in ballet with over 11 years of professional experience.

This is him doing 13+ pirouettes in a performance of Tchaikovsky Rhapsody (full video, he's on the right)

Interpret dance solo (燃烧的火苗) where he won the first gold ever for STA (video, news)

Swan Lake solo at the Taoli Cup Dance Competition in high school (video)

Modern dancing solo (黑白影画) at his graduation performance (video, he's the only guy in white)

He also taught at the Macao Conservatory for a year and danced in front of national leaders in Flying to the Moon (奔月) at the Macao 10th Handover Anniversary (video)

He's super flexible and has a strong core (despite being naturally thin)

In response to request from fans, he performed the Black Moonlight dance in a now viral video on Douyin.

2. Wuxia / Posture

LYX is known as one of the best actors working today for wire work - you can see him here doing 3 consecutive jumps 2-3 stories above ground (compilation videos 1, 2)

He does a lot of his own stunts and is often better (i.e. more graceful) than his stunt double, even though it's really risky and he's sustained some serious injuries from being dropped accidentally (And the Winner is Love: B roll video, actual scene, other BTS, other fight scenes)

He moves with elegance, not just in action sequences (Ashes of Love fight compilation 1, 2), but people have made video compilations of how he walks, kneels, works his sleeves and train

Of course, it's thanks to his dance foundation, but he also puts a lot of hard work into stunt training. Not something a lot of actors do because it eats up time to make more TV or go on variety shows (Ashes of Love stunt training, BTS)

3. Diving

He played a diver once in Flip in Summer (夏日心跳) and actually learned to dive... I mean he's no Tom Daley but this looks pretty good for an amateur... (full video)

4. Voice Acting

He’s always dubbed himself since circa 2018 (with the exception of And the Winner is Love due to Covid logistics issues), which is not the norm in Chinese drama (Ashes of Love dubbing BTS). In fact, he is sometimes the only person in the cast to use his original voice (e.g. in Princess Silver)

He also lends his voice to animations - he was the voice of Viktor in Arcane (BTS video), which received positive feedback (most people didn't realize he was not a professional voice actor)

He appears as a judge and live dubbing performer in Voice Monster alongside the top voice actors in China,��Bian Jiang (aka voice of Yehua in Eternal Love, Nan Wangj in the Untamed) and Zhang Jie (aka voice of Donghua in Eternal Love, Sifeng in Love & Redemption). He has so much respect to those working behind the scenes, and it really shows (full video)

5. Singing

Some of you may know that he started out in a boy band called JL with Fu Longfei - these videos didn't age well, but here you go: JL (MV), 我们 (MV)

He has released a number of solo singles, including 缘起 (MV), 星星之火 (live), 不是我 (MV), 等风停 (MV). and 勇 (soundtrack), which he composed and wrote the lyrics himself (these are all mando-pop ballads if that's your jam)

He performed Big Fish 大鱼 at Tmall's 11/11 Festival (live video) - while his rendition is not as powerful as the original, he can hit really high notes with an impressive falsetto - I think it goes up to G5 (one octave above middle C)

He performed Pipa Xing (琵琶行) at the Douyin Festival (live video) - the notable part is his Peking Opera style singing at the end

He occasionally releases covers of songs on Chinese karaoke app Changba or Douyin: 要不然我们就这样一万年 (youtube), 黑月光 (youtube), 不染 (youtube), 山水又一程 (youtube)

He can also sing in other languages, including 喜欢你 in Cantonese (recording) - it's actually a very good cover and his Cantonese pronunciation is >95% accurate - there are parts where you can't tell he's not a native speaker.

6. Musical Instruments

He's an accomplished classically-trained pianist, which you can see in...

JL MV (video, starting around 3:30 mark) - don't mind the makeup, it's from ages ago

Mr Mossie season 2 (video)

Love is Sweet (BTS video) - impromptu jazz, he was deciding which song to play

Fan thank you recording (video)

He also plays the guitar, though probably at an amateur level

7. Music Gaming

During college he was obsessed with this music game called O2Jam (劲乐团) to the point where he created new tracks (i.e. arrange/compose the music) for the company under the username Dinoroy (explained by himself here, videos of him playing).

He became well-known within the fan community as the legendary D神 (D God). There are a lot of funny comments from old players saying that they thought D God is a bitter middle-aged recluse trying to screw them over with difficult tracks (read comments here).

D God was so prolific and reliable that gaming company accepted his submissions without review. Here are some of his best tracks - game arrangement only (Lydia, Croatian Rhapsody, Digital Emotions), music & game arrangement (黑暗魅影), original composition (光之乐章)

8. League of Legends

He's an LOL super fan, commentator, and player since season 2, went to see worlds in person twice, and was a cast member in a gaming show called Beyond It! Hero (episodes here)

He played the 2018 All-Star Event in Las Vegas teaming with reigning world champion Rookie and delivered the final blow that beat the other team 2:1 (video)

He got a quadra kill at a celebrity mobile game even though his team was crap (video clip)

He co-invested 1M RMB in a team led by Misaya 若风 - you can see them playing together in a live broadcast of the mobile game (video)

Update: Our longtime fan boy has become spokesperson of League of Legends and official commentator at the Asian Games 2023 in Hangzhou! The love is reciprocated!

9. Calligraphy/Drawing/Culture

LYX is known for his Chinese handwriting (he practices regularly) - there's even a font based on his handwriting called 汉仪罗云熙体 (download here)

He does all his own handwriting for marketing materials (e.g. Immortality below) and doesn't need a hand double for scenes where his character is practicing ancient Chinese calligraphy

He's also got amazing drawing skills - check out the Queen of the Night 昙花 he drew as Runyu while waiting around on set in between takes (video)

While he doesn't go on a lot of variety shows, he's often a guest on cultural programs, like the beauty of Chinese Calligraphy 书法之美 (video), Chinese Fans in 指尖上的非遗 (video)

His self-produced Mr. Mossie covers a lot of cultural topics (seasons 1, 2, 3), the segment on Hanfu was featured in the UNESCO Chinese Language Video Festival (video)

10. Photography

Luo Yunxi is often seen taking photos on set with his top-of-the-line Leica camera. Here are some of the photos he has shared:

[crappymixtape]

gold & glitter

REQUEST → @superblysubpar, A VERY MERRY MIXTAPE ❝ i’m thinking a little rich!steve harrington, a little spicy somethin, somethin and a holiday play – spicy is right, steve takes you to see the nutcracker, but you don’t even make it to the first act • 18+  | ( 3.1k – smut with a dash of fluff, rich!steve x reader )

G O L D & G L I T T E R 🎶 the nutcracker suite, tchaikovsky

“Good evening, Mister Harrington. Miss. May I take your jackets?”

“Thank you, Charles. Did you order the MacCallan Anniversary malt?”

“Of course, sir. It is available neat here from your decanter or we can dress up however you like. Miss, your jacket?”

Squeezing your eyes shut, you opened them again expecting the finery before you to disappear into thin air like a dream, but it didn’t.

“Oh ye-yeah. I mean-yes. Yes, thank you,” you stumbled over your words as the waitstaff took your coat and disappeared behind the curtain. God, you were working overtime to maintain the same level of calm and collected sophistication that seemed to come so easily to your date.

Steve Harrington. Son of John Harrington and heir to the Harrington fortune. One with a foundation built by generations of brokers and wealth managers. Carried on throughout the years to be passed down to the eldest or, in Steve’s case, the only son.

You’d been together for over a year now, but you still weren’t used to it. This lifestyle.

Going anywhere with him meant multiple planned routes in and out of your destinations. Private cars with dark tinted, bullet-proof windows. Black American Express cards, Gucci loafers, and champagne flown direct from the Garonne Valley in Bordeaux, France.

And of course, at Christmastime, a viewing of George Balanchine's The Nutcracker from a private balcony, performed by only the finest troupe at the New York City Ballet.

You’d been to the theatre, the opera, but never like this. A suite all to yourselves, up and away from prying eyes, and upon each seat rested a pair of exquisitely golden opera binoculars for your viewing pleasure. It felt otherworldly. Lush and dark, gilded and polished. Long, red, crushed velvet curtains draped heavy to the floor and on a small table thick, crystalline tumblers sat next to a matching decanter full of only the finest single malt whiskey.

Lifting a hand, you ghosted an immaculately manicured finger around the rim of one of the glasses.

“Is it up to your standards, honey?”

The low, warmth of Steve’s voice broke your trance and pulled your gaze quick to look up at him.

“What?” you wondered aloud, still surprised at how he could ask such questions, “My standards? God. It’s beautiful.”

“Good. M’glad you like it.”

A smile tugged up at the corner of his mouth as he watched you walk to lean out over the balcony and look down at the sea of seats below. You were wearing the emerald green dress he’d bought you especially for the occasion. Made of the finest silk and fitted tight against every curve and dip of your body. Your hair swept long over one shoulder, soft skin exposed through the keyhole cut into the back. You were exquisite.

And you were all his.

Tucking a hand into the pocket of his slacks he reluctantly looked away from you and took up the decanter to pour a measure of whiskey for himself. MacCallan, single malt, from 1928 and around three-hundred thousand dollars a bottle. Lifting the tumbler he inhaled deeply and let his eyes drift shut. Worth every single penny.

“Charles,” his voice notched up in volume and the man from earlier appeared through the thick, velvet curtains.

“Sir?”

“A bottle of Dom and a chilled glass,” Steve took a drink from his whiskey and let it sit on a his tongue for a moment before swallowing it down. “Oh, and my cigar case.”

“Sir, you know smoking isn’t permitted–”

Steve hummed, a low thrum in his throat, and stepped forward toward the other man.

“How much do I pay for these seats, Charles? How much does my family pay for these seats? Since the theatre opened in 1964…I’ll let you do the math,” he took another sip of whiskey and lifted a hand to smooth down the other man’s cravat, “My cigar case.”

“Yes. Of course, Mister Harrington,” the man replied quietly, eyes glued to the cheap, shiny black plastic of his dress shoes.

Steve put on a smile, the one he gave to clients when he knew he’d closed an account, and gripped the man’s shoulder, “Good man.”

And without another word Charles was off again through the curtain.

There was no denying it, Steve’s presence always held weight. Held power. No one could tell him no. Stood in boardrooms dressed to the nines. Gold heirloom cufflinks, custom tailored jackets and Tucci de Lusso oxfords included, but this version of him was different. Somehow more and you didn’t know how it was possible.

Brunette locks perfectly coiffed. Custom black Armani suit fitted tight across his chest and shoulders. Gold signet ring with his initials engraved upon it shining up from his index finger, and damn if his ass didn’t look incredible in those slacks.

You clicked your tongue at him and fixed him with a look, closing the gap between the two of you.

“Babe, he’s just trying to enforce the house rules,” smoothing a hand up his chest, you pretended to adjust his tie as an excuse to touch him.

“Honey, you and I both know who makes the rules around here,” he drawled, his tone making you weak in the knees, and he set his glass down in favor of taking hold of your waist. His hand wide and warm on the small of your back as he ran it down the curve of your ass and squeezed, pulling a gasp from your lips.

“Steve,” you chided, no heat behind it, and he dipped down to press a kiss to your neck.

“This really is your color,” he whispered in your ear and your eyes fluttered at the sound. Pressed your thighs together as he traced a finger across your exposed collarbone. Warmth blooming in your core as he followed the hem that chased along the edge of your shoulder.

“You’ve got good taste,” you whispered back, swallowing the moan that had crept up your throat and he grinned.

“I do, don’t I.”

“Sir, your cigar cas–oh!”

Charles came back through the curtain to find the two of you pressed into each other, Steve’s nose buried in the crook of your neck. Your cheeks burned at being caught.

“My sincerest apologies, sir! I should’ve–”

“S’alright,” Steve chuckled, pulling away from you to casually take the case from the other man without missing a beat. He reached into his money clip and slipped a hundred dollar bill into Charles’ hand, “Now. That will be all. If I need anything, I’ll ring you.” The finality of his words hung in the air.

“Yes, sir. Of course, sir. Excuse me,” and with that Charles disappeared again for what you were certain, after all that, would be the last time.

“Shit,” you breathed, cheeks still bright red as you bit back a laugh.

Steve was laughing too, but no where near embarrassed, and he grabbed your hand to pull you close to his chest again as the theatre lights flickered and slowly dimmed.

“Mmm, damn. Showtime,” he murmured softly into your hair.

You felt your stomach drop at the thought of having to sit so still, and so far from Steve for three hours, but then another thought came to you. One that made your cheeks flush again and you pressed your face into his lapel, breathing in the citrusy, cedar scent of his cologne.

Pulling away just enough to meet his gaze the expression you maintained was innocent, but the look in your eye wasn’t. It was dark and needy. Warm and flickering at the feeling of his hands on your waist.

“We could freshen up first,” you suggested quietly and as Steve put your words together his pupils blew wide. Pools of black edged in gold and he squeezed at the plush of your hip.

“Uh-huh,” came out strangled and it was all he could manage. Unable to focus on anything other than rucking that silk dress up around your thighs, and without hesitation he grabbed your hand and pulled you through the thick, velvet curtains.

The corridor was empty, Charles hiding wherever he’d rushed off to, and everyone else was in their seats to catch the opening act as Steve led you the short distance down the hall.

Luckily for you, the neighboring balcony’s ticket holders had filed for bankruptcy earlier in the year and now the restrooms on this wing were exclusively Steve’s. Doors crafted from thick oak and etched with breathtaking carvings of Swan Lake and Slyphide, they were heavy enough to drown out anything happening on the other side.

Thank god.

Ignoring the men’s and women’s signs, Steve chose the closest door and shouldered into it, bicep straining against the tight fabric of his shirt as he held muscled it open. It was a hurried mess, both of you tripping into the room on the train of your dress in a fit of giggles as Steve huffed a laugh and cursed under his breath.

“Baby.”

Heels clicking on the white granite tile floor, you regained your footing and finally took in all the exquisite details of the ornate room. Wide marble slabs. Bottles of lotion and perfume that cost more than your mortage. Gold fixtures shining in the low light falling from crystal chandeliers that refracted bright shards of color against the walls.

You would have appreciated the incredible beauty of it all, but Steve. You couldn’t have cared less and neither could he.

He spun you around to face him and hooked his arms behind the backs of your legs. Scooped you up off the ground and pulled a squeal from you as you held on tight around his neck to steady yourself.

Squeezing his hold on you, he freed an arm and swept it across the counter. Knocked the soap dish clattering into the sink basin and paid absolutely no attention to the lush basket of designer hand towels that fell to the floor as he lifted you with ease onto the marble surface.

“Steve,” you protested weakly and when he notched himself between your legs you felt yourself melt under him.

His hands were everywhere. Your waist, the small of your back, fingers pressing into your cheek and pushing your hair over your shoulder to drag messy, open-mouthed kisses against the skin there. It pulled a moan from your lips and at the sound he groaned into you.

“Christ, babe. I’ve wanted to get my hands on you since you climbed into the limo. Pretty as a fuckin’ picture in this thing. So damn hot. All for me, huh?”

“S’always for you,” you half-laughed, but it caught in your throat as he slipped a hand between your thighs, “God, Steve.”

“This for me too, honey?”

He gathered a handful of emerald green silk in one hand and pooled it at your waist as the cool air of the room sent a shiver up your spine. Then he caught sight of the black lace panties hugging tight against you and sucked in a breath. Bit down on his bottom lip and looked like he might cry.

“You’re gonna kill me with these. Are you kiddin’ me? Baby. Look at this,” he babbled, just standing there not touching you and you grabbed hold of his wrist and tugged him back into you.

“Talk too much,” you murmured against his ear, running a hand through the hair at the nape of his neck and dragging your nails against his skin, “It’s all yours…Mister Harrington.”

And fuck if the dress and panties weren’t enough, the sound of your voice wrapped around his name did him in.

“Damn right it is.”

He growled as you tugged on his hair, slipped his hand back between your legs and tugged the thin fabric of your panties aside. The way he had been kissing and talking at you out on the balcony had been plenty to send you pressing your thighs together, but the way he was handling you in here had you soaked.

His fingers slipped in your slick as he felt just how wet you were and he smirked against your skin as he dragged his lips up to your jawline. Tutting softly he slowly circled your clit, his other hand moving to wrap gently around the column of your throat.

“Bet you want me to talk now, huh honey? You want that? Talk dirty to you?” his voice was barely above a whisper as his fingers slid down to press against your entrance.

You swallowed against the hand he had on your throat, your lips dropping open into a perfect little ‘o’ as you squirmed against the counter, impatient for him.

“Uh-huh,” you breathed and he smirked at how he had you wrapped around his finger, literally as he slid one into you.

“That’s my girl. I know what you like, don’t I? Give you everything you need. Take care of you, hm?” he babbled, kissing and sucking at the hollow behind your ear as he began to slide his finger in and out, in and out. A slow drag at first before adding a second finger and pulling a moan from your lips.

“Good care of me,” fell out mindlessly as he gently tightened the hand on your throat making your heartbeat thud in your ears.

“This isn’t enough though, is it? Not enough. Want me to fill you up, don’t you honey?” he whispered and you nodded, your throat too tight to speak, and god you wanted him to make you see stars.

He pulled his hand from between your legs to undo the button on his pants and tears pricked at the corners of your eyes at the loss of his touch.

“Shh, I got you, baby,” he coaxed, pulling down his zipper and reaching in to free his rock hard cock.

It sprang out of his pants without any encouragement and he wrapped a hand around it. Rubbed it against your slit as it practically cried in anticipation and as he slowly pushed himself into you it made you sucked in a rasp of a breath.

“Steve,” you begged and he moved his hand to grip your thigh.

“I know, baby.”

An inch more and he was into you up to the hilt. Filling you so much that you could feel the tip pressing against the spot only he could reach. Easing out he groaned as you clenched down on him before pushing back in and he set the pace there. A slow drag. In, out. In, out.

The wet sounds coming from you as he fucked you slowly were obscene. Made louder by the empty room, but you didn’t care. You wanted more.

“Harder,” you pleaded. He wanted it too and as he looked down at the sight of his cock sliding into your cunt he nearly lost it.

Letting go of your throat he grabbed onto your other thigh for purchase and pulled you to the very edge of the counter. Picked up the pace and started fucking you faster, the slap, slap, slap of his thighs against yours filling the air.

“Fuck, sweetheart. Feel so good. You like that? Huh? Want more?”

“More–shit. Yes, god. More, Steve.”

Your knuckles were white with how hard you were gripping the counter, moans falling freely from your lips now as Steve pushed you both closer and closer to climax. You could feel the coil tightening in your stomach as he squeezed into the plush of your thighs and your hand flew up to grab at the back of his neck.

“Gonna–ugh–come, baby. Come with me, baby,” he said through gritted teeth, jaw ticking when he clenched down, and as he rocked his hips back into you, you both came.

Your orgasm wrapped around you tight. White hot. Electric. Every inch of you buzzing and sparking like fireworks on the fourth of July and you cried out as his thrusts fell out of sync, jerky and messy as he came down.

A soft thud echoed against the tile as your head fell back against the mirror behind you, beads of sweat holding your hair messy across your forehead. Steve leaned into you, rested his head on your chest, and slowly your breaths evened out.

Your lips twitched with a smile, your hand lifting to cover your mouth as you held back a laugh, and Steve seemed to have the same thought as he chuckled against your dress.

“Someone heard us. For sure,” you finally said, voice crackly from breathing so hard.

“And? Who gives a shit. Maybe we just gave them a good idea,” Steve grinned, looking up at you from where he rested his chin on your belly.

You swatted at him, gasping as he pulled out of you to avoid getting hit.

Bending down, Steve grabbed a couple of the hand towels from where they’d landed on the tile and ran warm water on them. Quickly cleaned himself up and then took his time with you. Paid close attention to where he’d held onto your throat. Where his fingertips pressed into your thighs. Dabbed softly across your forehead and spent extra time on the mess between your legs.

You touched up your makeup and perfume, adjusted Steve's tie and hair, and when you both finally emerged from the bathroom the piece the orchestra was playing reached a crescendo and the theatre filled with applause.

It couldn’t be the end of the first act?

Steve walked you easy back to the balcony and held the heavy velvet curtain open for you. Your gilded opera binoculars were still sitting perfectly upon your seat where you’d left them and the bottle of chilled Dom Perignon was on ice along with a champagne flute – you hated whiskey.

You both sank into your seats as the orchestra began to play again and you recognized the piece and shot Steve a look.

“The party scene just started,” you whispered, “We’re not even out of the first part of act one.”

“Christ,” he groaned, grinning into his hands as he rubbed them across his face. Then, glancing over at you he grabbed his cigar box, “We can always make up for it next year. Right?”

Your eyes grew wide.

“Skip the Nutcracker?” you asked incredulously and he quirked a brow at you.

“Yeah. Skip it and we’ll go catch part two of the bathroom scene at mine,” he said giving you a wicked grin and you feigned shock, your own grin threatening to shatter your facade.

“Mister Harrington, what would your mother say?”

And the look he gave you then was the absolute definition of smug.

“My Stevie boy always gets what he wants.”

And damn if she wasn’t right about that.

[transmechanicus]

Where would you advise someone interested in reading 40k books start?

It depends on what you’re interested in about 40k. The books tend to be very faction specific, so if you’re interested in say the Adeptus Mechanicus, there’s (maybe) not going to be much reason for you to read a book about Fabius Bile. There are some 40k books that are commonly regarded as being more foundational to the setting in the early 2000s, some that are advancing the story and were published last week, and others that have recently become fan favorites due to their broad comedic and story quality. So, TL;DR, i can give more specific recommendations if i know what you like abt 40k.

“Classic” books that are approachable for complete beginners to the setting in my experience or according to trusted sources:

The Night Lords trilogy (Soul Hunter, Blood Reaver, Void Stalker) by Aaron Demski Bowden

The Eisenhorn, Ravenor, and Bequin novels by Dan Abnett

Priests of Mars and sequels by Graham McNiel

Books advancing the current ‘story’ of 40k in M42:

Dark Imperium, Plague War, and Godblight by Guy Haley, focused on the Indomitus Crusade

Fabius Bile: (Primogenitor, Clonelord, Manflayer) by Josh Reynolds

The Great Work, and Genefather by Guy Haley again, focused on Belisarius Cawl

The Dawn of Fire series (various authors)

Books i just like or heard really good things about

Twice Dead King by Nate Crowley

Infinite and Divine by Robert Rath

Ascension Day by Adrian Tchaikovsky

The Ahriman series by John French

Krieg and Siege of Vraks by Steve Lyons

If i missed any real bangers you can check the notes of this and i’m sure someone will pipe up😂

[thealexandriaarchives]

The Arrakis Royal Ballet in Arrakeen has just had a crisis of leadership under the management of the CHOAM Foundation which oversees its board, and Vladimir Harkonnen has been ousted as chairman, which means two things: Oh thank god we don't have to watch the same 5 Tchaikovsky shows over and over again this season, Swan Lake and The Firebird are FINE but GOD- and the Company's default leading man for every performance, Feyd-Rautha Harkonnen, will suddenly have to compete for his slot.

That's totally fine, but the next person to fill the board's slot is Leto Atredies, a man who's actively investigating the Harkonnens for using the Ballet for money laundering as well as reputation laundering, and his son, Paul Atredies, is about to make his international debut after being quietly... discouraged, from applying. Still, whether as a PR move or an olive branch, Leto suggests a Ballet to fit the bill: Giselle.

It's French, so it will give people something different from the aggressively Russian fare Vlad had selected for the last several seasons. ...A bit unfair, perhaps, Chani had been hoping for Balanchine outside of Christmas, but Feyd never expected he'd even get so much as Italian. Paul Atredies was taught by masters in the classical French schools and he's got the light, precise, delicate footwork and speed to show for it. Hell with that slight frame, and some of the moves Feyd has seen him do on TikTok, which is about the only place he's been able to perform up until now, there have even been whispers he could perform the female roles just as easily.

But Giselle is good. It will give Chani some space to show off her acting chops as she falls in love and goes insane, casts Irulan well as a cold and vicious wraith queen, ordering men to their deaths, and it's underperformed- often because it requires two strong male leads in the same company.

As soon as he hears the name Feyd-Rautha doesn't kid himself about which role he'll be playing. Even if he didn't personally prefer Hilarion to the lying noble prick Albrecht is revealed to be, there's no way the new chairman's son and anointed star is going to be the one drowned like a rat in a bucket by the end of act two.

Besides, Feyd knows what the last act requires physically, and he's seen Atredies throwing his whole body into full spins again and again through the air in his million dollar barre studio online. Feyd's just not going to let a spoiled green debutante get away with blowing this for everyone else.

So on the first day of rehearsals, while Chani and Stilgar are off with the set designer, discussing the frankly insane decision to replace the woods and lake with a desert terrain out of Lawrence of Arabia, Feyd-Rautha sidles up to their untested new danseur noble as he laces his shoes.

"I hear you're our new Duke of Arrakis."

[samueldays]

You got your hot war in Ukraine, @crustacean-on-main, and so far I think it's been a disaster and a reminder not to wish for war, not to mistake edginess for truth, not to indulge in this level of contrarianism, because war is awful and the imagined salutary effects of war have failed to manifest.

(original post, didn't want to quote that whole long thread)

Like, I recognize the theory that people tell flattering lies and indulge in pleasant fantasy in times of peace, but they get serious when a war starts and suddenly real people have to fire real bullets to stop a real threat. In practice western culture does not appear to have gotten serious and is still telling itself flattering lies.

There's the absolute clown world '''experts''' who have been going RUSSIA IS ABOUT TO COLLAPSE, RUSSIA HAS RUN OUT OF RESERVES, RUSSIA'S INEVITABLE END IS ONLY WEEKS AWAY for two years and somehow not been tarred and feathered and banned from public speaking.

There's Germany shutting down its nuclear plants while dependent on Russian oil and gas to the point where sanctions on Russia had to have an "except for oil and gas" clause, rendering the sanctions mostly a nuisance to civilians, with various lesser stupid shit of the same ineffective civilian-kicking sort like the International Cat Fanciers Foundation refusing to certify Russian cats, or the mustard museum that removed the Russian mustard, or the orchestra that removed Tchaikovsky.

There was the US ambassador to Russia who didn't speak Russian, and the other US ambassador to Russia who was on Twitter being performatively ignorant and clueless about why Russians would support Putin.

[iwillreadyourbook]

🌌 Reading List Inspired by Dune by Frank Herbert 🌌

1. Foundation by Isaac Asimov

2. Hyperion by Dan Simmons

3. The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. Le Guin

4. The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey

5. The Broken Earth trilogy by N.K. Jemisin

6. A Canticle for Leibowitz by Walter M. Miller Jr.

7. Children of Time by Adrian Tchaikovsky

8. The Book of the New Sun by Gene Wolfe

9. The Mars Trilogy by Kim Stanley Robinson

10. Perdido Street Station by China Miéville

[untitled5071]

yo idk if you're still taking requests but could you write a smth about Lisa taking the creature to see a ballet. i had this realization that the creature died before Tchaikovsky was even born and i think it's criminal that he never heard of the nutcracker, swan lake or even the 1812 Overture (where Tchaikovsky used actual cannons 💀). it could be any of his ballets btw ^_^

You had me at Tchaikovsky, I played violin for ten years and he's one of my favorite composers, though I've never seen one of his ballets, a mistake I'll have to rectify soon. Regardless, I hope you enjoy!

🪦🪦🪦🪦🪦🪦🪦🪦🪦

It was a gift for both of them, really.

As a general rule, they were very big on date nights; every day they were together was bliss, but they loved finding new things to experience together, new ways to celebrate the strange second chance at life they were given.

Luckily for them, the smallish city they had settled in after Brookview offered a plethora of activities, from checking out different restaurants, going ice skating in the winter and having picnics in the park in the summer to walking around different craft fairs and farmer’s markets to examine the wares of local artisans.

They thoroughly enjoyed every endeavor as long as they did it together, but by far one of their favorite things to do was attending concerts and dances, their shared love of music and dressing up for special occasions making those dates extra meaningful.

So when Lisa surprised her husband with two tickets to a traveling ballet troupe’s production of Swan Lake, neither could contain their excitement at the thought of the upcoming event.

Creature had discovered Tchaicovsky’s work after he had found a book of sheet music in a thrift store while they were shopping for new clothes, and he had spent the next several days learning as many of the pieces he could on the keyboard Lisa had bought him for their anniversary. The sound wasn’t nearly as good as it would have been on a proper grand piano, but it sufficed, his talent overcompensating for the poor quality of the instrument. Lisa loved to dance to it, and when the event was announced, she knew it would make the perfect date night for the two of them.

But first, they had to get ready.

They stood together in front of the cracked mirror in their rented apartment (Lisa insisted it stay that way, since it ‘reminded her of old times’), Lisa applying a pale shade of foundation to cover her more stubborn burn scars and her husband adjusting the lapels of his suit jacket, humming one of Tchaikovsky’s more nationalistic works-a piece called “Marche Slav”-to himself as he went. Lisa joined in, and though the rhythm was mostly wrong, her husband beamed and sent a praising smile her way.

She caught his eyes, and neither of them could resist leaning in for a kiss, one of those several they already had and would continue to share that day, just like every day since Lisa's resurrection.

They parted from their kiss, and Lisa giggled when she realized some of her foundation had rubbed off on her husband's chin, and she reached out to wipe it away with a thumb, cupping his cheek as she did so.

“I don't think that's really your shade, honey.”

Her husband smiled, holding his hand on Lisa's to keep her there for a moment before releasing her and letting her continue her cover-up job.

Normally they wouldn’t bother; they were both proud of the physical quirks that came with being the living dead and city folk had a tendency to overlook things. But since they were going to be out with the refined public, they both chose outfits that would cover their more….inhuman traits, with Lisa donning a long black velvet dress and opera gloves, and Creature opting for sleeves that covered the stitches on his right wrist and a hairstyle that covered his left ear.

Once they deemed themselves ready, they posed in front of the mirror, Lisa taking a picture with a Polaroid camera she had purchased second hand at a flea market. She waited for it to develop before hanging it up on the designated photo wall in their miniscule living room, covered floor to ceiling in polaroids from different date nights over the years, their smiling faces looking down on them from all angles, all reminiscent of other nights spent enjoying each other's company.

Like the others, this night promised to be a wonderful one.

Neither of them felt particularly hungry at that moment (a consequence of being undead and also their pre-show excitement) so they walked to the theater with Lisa hanging off of Creature's arm, the two giggling and speculating about what they were about to see all the while.

The lobby of the theater was crowded, and the couple clutched each other close as they shuffled their way through the mass of bodies. They skipped the massive drink line and the somehow longer one for the women's restroom, and they presented their tickets to the usher, who showed them to their seats.

They were at the front of the balcony, and Creature helped his wife into her seat like a proper gentleman before he took his own, and he leaned into her space as they read the same program, their heads resting together as they looked over the extensive list of performer and crew names.

Lisa looked up at her husband, a twinkle in her eyes.

“It looks like we're in for quite the treat tonight.”

Creature smiled back, nuzzling his nose against hers briefly.

“Any night we spend together is a treat, my love. This one just comes with a show.”

Lisa giggled, but she didn't have time to respond before the lights dimmed and the first round of applause started, which both of them joined. The curtain rose on the stage to reveal a yard outside of a castle where a grand party was taking place, numerous dancers moving to Tchaikovsky’s jovial score in perfect sync. Lisa ‘ooh’ed quietly under her breath, and Creature’s heart swelled as his wife scooted up in her chair slightly, wanting to be closer to the performance.

The festivities continued, the prince was given his weapon and as he ran into the woods after the flock of swans, Lisa rested her head on her husband's shoulder, lacing their arms together as they settled in to enjoy the rest of the performance.

As expected, the music was impeccable and the dancing was breathtaking, and by the time the titular waltz began and the enchanted swan maidens began their graceful steps, both undead lovers were fully entranced in what they were seeing, their full attention turned towards the stage, though Creature did keep sneaking glances at the hidden orchestra pit and wondering what it would take to be a part of one.

Before they knew it, the show ended, the dancers receiving well-earned and rapturous applause during their final bows. Lisa and Creature were on their feet with the rest of the audience, and when the crowd began to disperse, they sank back into the plush red armchairs of the theater while they waited for the waves of people to leave and make their own exit easier.

And, as they usually did to pass the time, they talked.

Creature immediately launched into a passionate tirade about the orchestration and skill of the people tasked with delivering it, throwing around musical terms Lisa didn't fully understand but nodded along enthusiastically to anyway, delighted to hear that her husband had adopted her penchant for passionate ramblings.

“--and the violins in the Allegro giusto were absolutely phenomenal, the dynamics were–what’s wrong, Dove? You're thinking so loud I can practically hear it.”

Lisa chuckled distractedly, falling silent for a moment and staring at the stage. He ducked his head down to hers and placed a finger under her chin to turn her gaze his way, but all worry about what she was pondering over dissipated as she blurted out,

“Would you still love me if I was turned into a swan?”

He couldn't help it; the bluntness of her farcical statement made him chuckle, and the adorable pinch of her eyebrows wasn't helping matters. He pulled her close, holding her to him and placing a kiss on the top of her head.

“Of course I would, darling, I would love you in any form. If you were turned into a swan I would move to the lakeside so you could swim happily, and I would read you poetry as you did. I'd help you chase away anyone you wanted to terrorize–because let's be honest, my love, you would be an absolute menace–I would find you the best things to eat that you could still digest and, if that still wasn't enough, I would find a way to get myself turned into a swan too so we could be together that way, since I never wish to be apart from you, regardless of the measures I would have to take to do so.”

Lisa watched him deliver his impassioned answer with wide and lovestruck eyes, and the last words were barely out of his mouth before her lips were on his, and she was kissing him with an endless gratitude and adoration.

And of course, he reciprocated in kind.

By the time they parted the crowd has mostly cleared out, giving them an unobstructed path towards the exit. Creature got up first, stretching a bit before offering his arm to Lisa with a wink and a fond smile.

“Shall we go, my dearest? I do believe there is a warm bed waiting for us at home, as well as a keyboard that is dying to be played.”

Lisa blushed and took his offered limb, slipping her arm in the crook of his and leaning her head on his shoulder.

“Lead the way, honey.”

They left together, still linked by their arms and chatting quietly amongst themselves as they continued to absorb the wonderful experience they had just had.

As they passed under the lights of the theater marquee and turned in the direction of home, Creature leaned down and kissed Lisa's cheek, savoring the blush that blossomed across his wife’s face.

“What was that for?”

He smiled, his eyes soft and tender.

“I just wanted to thank you for this night, my beloved Lisa. I'll never forget it, as with all of the time we spend together.”

She hummed affectionately and squeezed his arm tighter as they strode down the city street in tandem.

“No, thank you, darling. I can't wait to see what we do for the next one.”

[remnantglow]

hey! so i just finished i, robot as part of my crunch to finish my reading goal by the end of the year. ive loved fiction about robots and synthetic consciousness for a long time, so i was aware of it and the foundation books, but hadn’t actually read it before. i had… a wildly ambivalent time! i was wondering if you had any essays/collections/books/scholarship you would recommend responding to it? im still formulating my thoughts and would love to get other perspectives (including your own, if you want to say anything about it!)

uhhh yknow, funnily enough, for how influential "I, robot" was, i cannot think of anything i've read that's directly in conversation with it, at least not any more than the average scifi robot story is by default. I mean, i think with how strongly the three laws of robotics took hold in popculture any story about robots "defying programming" - which often gets tied to their gaining sentience - can probably be traced back to asimov's robots (Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep/Blade Runner, Ex Machina & Westworld are some more notable examples here, i think). that's all i got though, sorry!

(i can also mention a couple books i haven't gotten around to yet that might be of interest here: When HARLIE Was One by David Gerrold; He, She, and It by Marge Piercy; Virtual Girl by Amy Thomson; Silently and Very Fast by Catherynne M. Valente; Dogs of War by Adrian Tchaikovsky)

also, i personally loved I, Robot! but that's mostly because i really adore a story that revolves around a strict set of rules and finding the exploitable flaws and loopholes in those rules. and that's basically what most of the stories in I, Robot are about lol

[singeratlarge]

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Carlos Alomar, J Balvin, the 1824 debut of Beethoven’s 9thSymphony, my excellent cousin Jane Biddle, Johannes Brahms, Teresa Brewer, Robert Browning, Cornelius Bumpus, Armando Castellano (Quinteto Latino), Eagle Eye Cherry, Tex Cobb, Gary Cooper, ace drummer Rich Dart (Micky Dolenz, Monkees), Anne Dudley, Mic Gillette (Tower of Power), Olympe de Gouges, the late, great Col. Ed Hall, Robert Hegyes, Thelma Houston, Bill Kreutzmann, the late, great Johnny Maestro (good to have met you), Mamas & Papas 1966 single “Monday Monday,” Darren McGavin, Glenn Miller’s 1941 single “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” Christy Moore, Keith Richard’s “Satisfaction” (guitar riff born today in 1965), David Ruffin, Rabindranath Tagore, Derek Taylor, Pyotor Illyich Tchaikovsky, Johnny Unitas, Rick West (Tremeloes), and the acclaimed and eclectic artist, set designer, and drummer: Prairie Prince. He’s a foundational member of the great satirical art rock band The Tubes, and he’s performed on countless recordings, the short list includes David Byrne, John Fogerty, George Harrison, Todd Rundgren, and XTC. Prairie and I have had a few musical adventures, and I’m grateful for his artistry. Here’s a track we did a few years back. https://johnnyjblairsingeratlarge.bandcamp.com/track/halfway-to-dakota    ...Meanwhile, HB PP thank you for banging on the drum all day...

#prairieprince #tubes #toddrundgren #johnnyjblair #chrisvonsneidern #dakota #sanfrancisco #birthday #tapevaultstudio #drummer #drums

[oldmancarrot]

Books I’ve read (2024)

American Prometheus: Oppenheimer, by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin

Hirohito and the Making of Modern Japan, by Herbert P. Bix

The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley

Winterlight (#7), by Kristen Britain

Spirit of the Woods (7.5), by Kristen Britain

Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, by Lewis Carroll

Campaign: Austerlitz 1805, by Ian Castle

Scarlet (#1), by Genevieve Cogman

Rubicon, by J. S. Dewes

Ship of Magic (#1), by Robin Hobb

Song of the Huntress, by Lucy Holland

Pax, by Tom Holland

Babel, by R. F. Kuang

The First Book of Lankhmar (#1), by Fritz Leiber

The Mirror and the Light (#3), by Hilary Mantel

Teixcalaan Duology: A Desolation Called Peace (#2), by Arkady Martine

The Stranger Times (#1), by C. K. McDonnell

Unruly, by David Mitchell

Gideon the Ninth (#1), by Tamsyn Muir

Harrow the Ninth (#2), by Tamsyn Muir

Nona the Ninth (#3), by Tamsyn Muir

Anno Dracula, by Kim Newman

Tiffany Aching’s Guide to Being a Witch, by Rhianna Pratchett and Gabrielle Kent

A Stroke of the Pen, by Terry Pratchett

Napoleon the Great, by Andrew Roberts

Shogun (The Life and Times of Tokugawa Ieyasu: Japan’s Greatest Ruler): by A. L. Sadler

Hyperion (#1), by Dan Simmons

The Dawnhounds, by Sascha Stronach

Currently Reading

Stormlight Archive: Word of Radiance (#2), by Brandon Sanderson

The French Revolution and Napoleon: Crucible of the Modern World, by Lynn Hunt and Jack R. Censer

Personal Politics: Sexuality, Gender, and the Remaking of Citizenship in Australia, by Leigh Boucher et. al.

I’ll get to these someday

Liberating France: 3rd Edition, by Judy Anderson, and Allan Kerr

Foundation (#1), by Isaac Asimov

Against All Gods, by Miles Cameron

Shanghai Immortal, by A.Y. Chao

The Storm Before the Storm, by Mike Duncan

The Silk Roads, by Peter Frankopan

I, Claudius (#1), by Robert Graves

Campaign: Gallipoli 1915, by Phillip J. Haythornthwaite

The Creeper, by Margaret Hickey

The Mad Ship (#2), by Robin Hobb

Ship of Destiny (#3), by Robin Hobb

Fool’s Errand (#1), by Robin Hobb

The Golden Fool (#2), by Robin Hobb

Istanbul, by Bettany Hughes

The Rise of Kyoshi (#1), by F. C. Lee

The Shadow of Kyoshi (#2), by F. C. Lee

The Penguin Book of Classical Myths, by Jenny March

The Romanovs, by Simon Sebag Montefiore

The Deed of Paksenarrion, by Elizabeth Moon

36 Streets (#1), by T. R. Napper

Ghost of the Neon God (#2), by T. R. Napper

Spinning Silver, by Naomi Novik

Buried Deep and other short stories, by Naomi Novik

Velocity Weapon (#1), by Megan O’Keefe

The Blighted Stars (#1), by Megan O’Keefe

Saevus Corvax Deals with the Dead (#1), by K. J. Parker

She Who Became The Sun, by Shelly Parker-Chan

The Gormenghast trilogy, by Mervyn Peake

Howling Dark (#2), by Christopher Ruocchio

Mistborn: The Lost Metal (#7), by Brandon Sanderson

The Stormlight Archive: Edgedancer (#2.5), by Brandon Sanderson

The Stormlight Archive: Oathbringer (#3), by Brandon Sanderson

The Stormlight Archive: Rhythm of War (#4), by Brandon Sanderson

The Bone Season (#1), by Samantha Shannon

A Day of Fallen Night, by Samantha Shannon

The Bone Shard War (#3), by Andrea Stewart

The Book of Witches, by various authors, edited by Jonathan Strahan

City of Last Chances (#1), by Adrian Tchaikovsky

Service Model, by Adrian Tchaikovsky

Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon, by Wole Talabi

Early Modern Japan, by Conrad Totman

Wild Dogs, by Michael Trant

Heroic Fantasy Short Stories (Anthology), by various authors

[queenlucythevaliant]

For the song superlative game: any or all of 5, 17, & 23

5: Songs to belt with friends in the car

"Misery Business," Paramore

"Drive It Like You Stole It" from Sing Street

"Dog Days Are Over" by Florence and the Machine

"Want U Back," Cher Loyd

"Build Me Up Buttercup," The Foundations

"Just Like Jesse James," Cher

17: Songs most likely to give me full-body shivers

"Hymn of the Cherubim," Tchaikovsky

"Stay, I Pray You" from Anastasia the musical

"Samson," Regina Spektor

"They Call The Wind Maria" from Paint Your Wagon

"Tundra," Ola Gjeilo

"Have No Mercy" from Khovanschina

"Sinnerman" by Nina Simone

"Cassini - The Grand Finale," Sleeping at Last

23: Songs that make me think of Keendaanma ♥️

"The High Countries," Caedmon's Call

"Stars," Skillet

"The Real World," Owl City

"A Matter of Time," The Killers

"Take Off," Bob and Doug McKenzie ft. Geddy Lee I'm so sorry

[twirlingballerinas0]

The Enchanting World of Ballet: Grace, Art, and Passion

Ballet is more than just dance; it’s a timeless art form that combines movement, music, and storytelling. Its elegance and discipline have captured hearts worldwide, making it a cornerstone of performing arts. Whether you’re a dancer, an enthusiast, or simply curious about this mesmerizing craft, this post delves deep into the enchanting world of ballet.

From the Barre to the Stage: The Foundations of Ballet

Ballet begins at the barre, where dancers perfect their posture, balance, and technique. These fundamental exercises serve as the backbone of a ballet dancer’s skill set, laying the groundwork for the fluidity and precision that the stage demands. Each plié and tendu refines muscle memory, creating the effortless grace audiences admire.

Beyond the physical, the barre also teaches discipline. Dancers often spend years mastering these basics, building resilience and a deep understanding of their craft. This meticulous attention to detail is what sets ballet apart from other dance forms.

The Language of Movement: Storytelling Through Ballet

Ballet tells stories without words, relying instead on choreography and music. From classics like Swan Lake to contemporary creations, every gesture, leap, and turn carries meaning. The audience becomes part of a visual narrative, interpreting emotions and tales through the dancers’ movements.

This storytelling is a collaborative effort. Choreographers, composers, and dancers work together to bring the story to life. The harmony between music and movement is essential, creating a seamless blend that stirs the soul.

Iconic Ballet Performances That Defined an Era

Over the centuries, ballet has produced unforgettable performances that continue to inspire. Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker is a holiday staple, enchanting audiences with its whimsical characters and breathtaking choreography. Similarly, Giselle is a poignant tale of love and betrayal, showcasing the emotive power of ballet.

These productions highlight the versatility of ballet as both an art and a form of entertainment. They blend tradition with innovation, proving that ballet remains relevant in modern times while honoring its rich history.

Ballet and the Modern World: Staying Relevant

In today’s fast-paced digital age, ballet faces unique challenges. However, it has adapted beautifully, using platforms like Instagram and YouTube to reach wider audiences. Performances are now live-streamed, and online classes have made learning ballet accessible to enthusiasts worldwide.

This evolution hasn’t diluted ballet’s essence but has instead opened doors for innovation. Contemporary choreographers infuse modern themes into traditional techniques, ensuring ballet’s timeless charm endures.

Why Ballet Is for Everyone

Ballet isn’t just for professionals. It offers numerous benefits for people of all ages and skill levels. Children develop coordination and confidence, while adults can enjoy improved posture, flexibility, and mental clarity. Ballet’s focus on discipline and mindfulness makes it a holistic activity that nurtures both body and soul.

Moreover, ballet encourages self-expression. Whether you’re pirouetting in a studio or simply enjoying a performance, ballet invites you to connect with its beauty and passion.

Conclusion

Ballet is an art form that transcends boundaries, blending tradition with innovation and discipline with creativity. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to inspire, uplift, and tell stories that resonate with the human spirit. So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, let ballet sweep you off your feet.

[artistrafayel]

She thought for a bit, and she finally decided on something that was simple and fun, but it would be tricky to do.

She grabbed her phone, and she started to play her favourite music on her phone. It was classical music, the waltz of the flowers made by Tchaikovsky.

But put her arms and legs in a ballet pose that was fairly simple. She wasn't a ballerina, but classical music was her favourite music.

- 🦢

interesting song choice

Classical was not what Rafayel expected, but it was welcomed. The ballet pose that she hit afterwards only made sense with the song choice, which made the atmosphere strike his inspiration just right. He gasped.

perfect! you look so etheral stay just like that while i get the sketch worked out

Taking a pencile, he made light strokes across the canvas to get the very foundation of the pose down before he went in with any paint.

[balletrax]

Discover the Best Music for Ballet: Elevate Your Dance Experience with Balletrax

For ballet dancers, music is the lifeblood that transforms technique into art. The right melodies can inspire movement, enhance performance, and elevate the overall dance experience. At Balletrax, we are dedicated to providing the best music for ballet enthusiasts, ensuring that every plié and pirouette resonates with harmony and grace. In this blog, we’ll delve into the importance of selecting the right music for ballet, highlight some of the best music options available, and introduce you to our curated collections to enrich your dance journey.

The Role of Music in Ballet

Music and ballet share a symbiotic relationship; one cannot truly shine without the other. The right musical accompaniment can:

Set the Mood: Different pieces evoke various emotions, influencing how dancers interpret their movements.

Guide Rhythm and Timing: Music establishes a foundation for timing and rhythm, which is crucial for performing movements with precision.

Enhance Storytelling: Many ballet performances tell a story, and music plays a crucial role in conveying emotions and narratives.

Selecting the best music for ballet is vital for both dancers and instructors, as it lays the foundation for creativity and expression on stage and in the studio.

What to Look for in the Best Music for Ballet

When seeking the best music for ballet, consider the following factors:

Diversity of Styles: A well-rounded selection should include classical compositions as well as contemporary pieces to inspire different moods and interpretations.

Accessibility: Look for music that is readily available and easy to access, whether through digital platforms or physical collections.

Adaptability for Various Levels: The best music for ballet should cater to dancers of all levels, offering arrangements that are suitable for beginners as well as advanced performers.

Quality of Arrangements: High-quality arrangements can make a significant difference in how dancers connect with the music and express their movements.

Top Selections for the Best Music for Ballet

At Balletrax, we understand that the right music can significantly enhance your dance practice. Here are some of the best music options for ballet that we recommend:

Classical Ballet Scores

Classical music continues to be a timeless favorite among ballet dancers. Composers such as Tchaikovsky, Prokofiev, and Delibes have crafted masterpieces that beautifully complement ballet movements. For instance, Tchaikovsky’s "Swan Lake" and "The Nutcracker" are staples in any ballet repertoire, providing a rich tapestry of melodies that complement every leap and turn.

2. Contemporary Ballet Music

As ballet evolves, so does its music. Contemporary pieces by modern composers like Ludovico Einaudi and Max Richter offer fresh sounds that challenge traditional norms. Their emotive melodies are perfect for contemporary ballet classes, allowing dancers to explore new styles and expressions.

3. Ballet Class CDs

Balletrax offers a specially curated ballet class CD that features a harmonious blend of music designed for practice. Each track is selected for its ability to motivate and inspire, making it an essential resource for both students and instructors. The CD provides a perfect rhythm for warm-ups, barre work, and across-the-floor exercises.

4. Popular Music Arrangements for Ballet

Incorporating popular music into ballet can provide a unique twist to traditional routines. This approach allows dancers to explore new interpretations and engage with audiences in exciting ways. Look for collections that offer ballet adaptations of contemporary pop hits, giving your performances a modern flair.

5. Music Books for Ballet

Exploring music books that focus on ballet can also enhance your understanding of the genre. Collections like "Ballet Music for Beginners" offer simplified arrangements of classic pieces, making them accessible for young dancers. Additionally, books that discuss the theory behind dance music can provide valuable insights into interpreting rhythms and melodies.

How Balletrax Can Enhance Your Ballet Experience

At Balletrax, we are dedicated to helping ballet enthusiasts fully engage in the art of dance. Here’s how our offerings can elevate your ballet practice:

Curated Collections: We offer carefully curated collections of the finest music for ballet, ensuring you have access to a diverse range of styles and genres that spark creativity.

Quality Resources: Our ballet class CDs and music books are created with the utmost quality, and tailored to support dancers of every skill level. We strive to deliver resources that cater to the diverse needs of the ballet community.

Engagement and Community: Balletrax goes beyond just music; it’s about fostering a community of ballet enthusiasts. We organize workshops, classes, and events that unite dancers to share their passion and enhance their skills.

Educational Insights: Our resources often include insights into how to interpret music for dance, helping dancers deepen their understanding and enhance their performances

Conclusion

Discovering the best music for ballet is crucial for both aspiring and experienced dancers.At Balletrax, we believe that the perfect melodies can open up new possibilities in your dance practice, sparking creativity and encouraging growth. By exploring our curated collections of classical and contemporary music, as well as our specialized ballet class CDs and music books, you can elevate your ballet experience to new heights.