THE STORY OF SCHEHERAZADE (RIMSY-KORSAKOV)
In the enchanting world of Arabian Nights, where magic and wonder abound, there exists a timeless tale of courage, wit, and the power of storytelling. It is the story of Scheherazade, a captivating and resourceful young woman who used her gift of storytelling to save lives and transform hearts. Inspired by this legendary figure, Russian composer Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov crafted a musical masterpiece that bears her name: "Scheherazade." Through its evocative melodies and rich orchestration, Rimsky-Korsakov's composition brings to life the captivating journey of Scheherazade, weaving a tapestry of enchantment and adventure. Join me as we embark on a musical odyssey, where each note and melody unravel the captivating story of Scheherazade, a storyteller whose tales transcend time and touch the very depths of our souls.
Background:
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| Cherementets Lake |
During the summer months, Rimsky-Korsakov retreated with his family to the tranquil Glinki-Mavriny dacha, nestled by the shimmering Cherementets Lake near present-day Luga in Leningrad Oblast. It was there, amidst the serene beauty of nature, that he gave life to Scheherazade and also completed his Russian Easter Festival Overture. From June 4 to August 7, 1888, he dedicated himself to crafting Scheherazade, a symphonic suite comprising four interconnected movements that aimed to evoke a sense of fantasy narratives from the mystical Orient.
Originally, Rimsky-Korsakov had planned to title the movements of Scheherazade as "Prelude, Ballade, Adagio, and Finale." However, he sought the advice of Anatoly Lyadov and others, considering their opinions and his own inclination against a too-concrete program. Ultimately, he decided to assign thematic headings to the movements, drawing inspiration from the tales woven within The Arabian Nights.
The composer intentionally kept the titles vague, avoiding direct association with specific stories or Sinbad's voyages. Nevertheless, in the epigraph of the finale, Rimsky-Korsakov alludes to the adventure of Prince Ajib. In later editions, he discarded the titles altogether, preferring that listeners perceive his work as an Oriental-themed symphonic composition, capable of evoking a sense of fantastical adventure and enchantment. As he eloquently expressed, he aimed for listeners to recognize Scheherazade as a gateway to the magical wonders of Arabian Nights and the mystique of the East.
In the introduction to the score, Rimsky-Korsakov provided a brief narrative, setting the stage for the musical journey that was about to unfold. He painted a picture of Sultan Schakhriar, a ruler consumed by the belief that all women were deceitful and disloyal. Determined to put each of his wives to death after their first night of marriage, the Sultan's reign was filled with darkness and impending tragedy. However, Scheherazade, the brave and cunning Sultana, emerged as the heroine of the tale. With her captivating storytelling prowess, she managed to delay her execution day by day, captivating the Sultan's curiosity and ultimately dispelling his bloodthirsty vow.
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| The brass motif opening the 1st movement |
The first movement of Scheherazade commences with a somber and imposing brass motif that represents the dominant presence of the Sultan himself. This motif, with its descending whole-tone scale of E–D–C–B♭, establishes the Sultan's authoritarian character. It is followed by a series of chords in the woodwinds. Then, the enchanting leitmotif of Scheherazade, the storyteller herself, is introduced. This tender and sensuous melody, performed by a solo violin accompanied by the delicate notes of the harp, serves as the musical embodiment of Scheherazade's captivating tales.
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| The leitmotif- the violin solo. |
Rimsky-Korsakov carefully constructed his composition, incorporating his signature technique of juxtaposing keys that are a major third apart. This can be observed in the first movement, where E major and C major are prominently featured, creating a harmonious relationship. His orchestration of melodies is marked by clarity and comprehensibility, with meticulously crafted rhythms and skillful soloistic passages, all contributing to the unique character of Scheherazade.
The four movements of Scheherazade are intricately connected through brief introductory sections in the first, second, and fourth movements, as well as an intermezzo in the third. The solo violin, representing Scheherazade, plays a central role throughout, with its artistic theme resonating in the concluding moments of the fourth movement. Some critics have speculated that Rimsky-Korsakov's naval background influenced his choice to begin and end the suite with themes associated with the sea. The peaceful coda that concludes the final movement symbolizes Scheherazade's ultimate triumph, as she manages to win over the heart of the Sultan, granting herself a peaceful night's rest at last.
Scheherazade had its premiere in Saint Petersburg on October 28, 1888, with Rimsky-Korsakov himself conducting. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its captivating orchestral colors, fresh and evocative melodies, hints of Oriental flavors, rhythmic vitality, and a directness of expression unburdened by complex textures and structures often found in major orchestral works of the late 19th century. The composition's charm lies in its ability to transport listeners to a realm of enchantment and wonder, where fairy-tale adventures unfold in the mesmerizing melodies and evocative themes woven by Rimsky-Korsakov's masterful craftsmanship.
The Scheherazade By Nikolai Rimsy Korsakov:
In the illustrious composition of "Scheherazade" by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, the music breathes life into the captivating stories that Scheherazade spins. Among the tales that unfold through the enchanting melodies are "The Sea and Sinbad's Ship," "The Story of the Kalendar Prince," "The Young Prince and the Young Princess," and "Festival at Baghdad. The Sea. The Ship Breaks against a Cliff Surmounted by a Bronze Horseman."
1. Whole-tone: A whole-tone scale is one where every note is separated by the next note by one whole-tone.The four movements of Scheherazade are intricately connected through brief introductory sections in the first, second, and fourth movements, as well as an intermezzo in the third. The solo violin, representing Scheherazade, plays a central role throughout, with its artistic theme resonating in the concluding moments of the fourth movement. Some critics have speculated that Rimsky-Korsakov's naval background influenced his choice to begin and end the suite with themes associated with the sea. The peaceful coda that concludes the final movement symbolizes Scheherazade's ultimate triumph, as she manages to win over the heart of the Sultan, granting herself a peaceful night's rest at last.
Scheherazade had its premiere in Saint Petersburg on October 28, 1888, with Rimsky-Korsakov himself conducting. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its captivating orchestral colors, fresh and evocative melodies, hints of Oriental flavors, rhythmic vitality, and a directness of expression unburdened by complex textures and structures often found in major orchestral works of the late 19th century. The composition's charm lies in its ability to transport listeners to a realm of enchantment and wonder, where fairy-tale adventures unfold in the mesmerizing melodies and evocative themes woven by Rimsky-Korsakov's masterful craftsmanship.
The Scheherazade By Nikolai Rimsy Korsakov:
In the illustrious composition of "Scheherazade" by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, the music breathes life into the captivating stories that Scheherazade spins. Among the tales that unfold through the enchanting melodies are "The Sea and Sinbad's Ship," "The Story of the Kalendar Prince," "The Young Prince and the Young Princess," and "Festival at Baghdad. The Sea. The Ship Breaks against a Cliff Surmounted by a Bronze Horseman."
The opening movement, "The Sea and Sinbad's Ship," establishes the musical foundation for the entire composition. With its Largo e maestoso introduction, characterized by its slow and majestic tempo, Rimsky-Korsakov sets the stage, conjuring a sense of vastness and awe-inspiring beauty. The use of rich harmonies and orchestral colors depicts the endless expanse of the sea, while the Allegro non troppo section introduces Sinbad's ship, sailing courageously through the waves. Through contrasting dynamics, genuinely Arabic melodic motifs, and rhythmic drive, Rimsky-Korsakov captures the essence of Sinbad's adventurous spirit and the mythical encounters he faces, engaging the listener in a vivid and exhilarating maritime journey.
Following the grandeur of the opening movement, "The Story of the Kalendar Prince"
unfolds with a contemplative and introspective atmosphere. The initial Lento section provides a melancholic backdrop, serving as a reflective platform for the narrative to unfold. As the music transitions to Andantino, Rimsky-Korsakov delves into a series of variations on the theme, showcasing his mastery of orchestration and compositional technique. Each variation explores different tonalities and instrumental combinations, highlighting the clarity and brightness of the orchestral texture. Through these variations, the composer offers nuanced perspectives on the Kalendar Prince's story, illuminating the emotional depths and transformative moments of his journey.
In the third movement, "The Young Prince and the Young Princess," Rimsky-Korsakov crafts a
tender and romantic ambiance, reminiscent of a captivating love story. The opening Andantino quasi allegretto section invites the listener into a world of yearning and longing, as the delicate melodies weave a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The subsequent Pochissimo più mosso and Come prima sections build upon the initial theme, adding subtle variations and modulations, creating a sense of development and evolution within the narrative. As the music gradually becomes Pochissimo più animato, the composer introduces moments of heightened passion and fervor, expressing the blossoming romance between the young prince and princess. The movement concludes with a quick coda, returning to the inner motif, providing a satisfying resolution and a balanced musical arc.
Finally, the fourth movement, "Festival at Baghdad. The Sea. The Ship Breaks against a Cliff Surmounted by a Bronze Horseman," serves as a climactic culmination of the entire composition. The Allegro molto opening bursts forth with energy and excitement, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of a grand festival in the city of Baghdad. Rimsky-Korsakov weaves together various musical motifs and themes from previous movements, creating a sense of coherence and unity. The music transitions through different sections, from the majestic Lento to the lively Vivace, creating contrasting moods and atmospheres. The composer reintroduces the main Scheherazade violin theme, intertwining it with Sultan Shakhriar's theme, evoking a sense of confrontation and resolution. A reiteration of the fanfare motif symbolizes the shipwreck, building tension and drama. As the movement progresses towards its conclusion, Rimsky-Korsakov masterfully resolves the conflicting relationship between the subdominant minor Shakhriar's theme and the tonic major of the Scheherazade theme (Plagal Cadence), leading to a fantastical, lyrical, and ultimately peaceful ending.
Through its intricate musical structures, innovative orchestration, and meticulous attention to detail, "Scheherazade" transports the listener into a world of imagination and storytelling. Rimsky-Korsakov's masterful use of dynamics, melodic motifs, and thematic development imbues each movement with its own unique character and purpose. From the vastness of the sea to the introspection of personal journeys, from tender romance to grand celebrations, the symphonic journey of "Scheherazade" embraces the power of music to evoke emotions, paint vivid images, and captivate the listener's imagination.
Meanings of musical terms:
Following the grandeur of the opening movement, "The Story of the Kalendar Prince"
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| The 2nd movement has a dynamic marking of dolce ed espressivo meaning "sweetly and expressively." |
In the third movement, "The Young Prince and the Young Princess," Rimsky-Korsakov crafts a
tender and romantic ambiance, reminiscent of a captivating love story. The opening Andantino quasi allegretto section invites the listener into a world of yearning and longing, as the delicate melodies weave a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The subsequent Pochissimo più mosso and Come prima sections build upon the initial theme, adding subtle variations and modulations, creating a sense of development and evolution within the narrative. As the music gradually becomes Pochissimo più animato, the composer introduces moments of heightened passion and fervor, expressing the blossoming romance between the young prince and princess. The movement concludes with a quick coda, returning to the inner motif, providing a satisfying resolution and a balanced musical arc.
Finally, the fourth movement, "Festival at Baghdad. The Sea. The Ship Breaks against a Cliff Surmounted by a Bronze Horseman," serves as a climactic culmination of the entire composition. The Allegro molto opening bursts forth with energy and excitement, capturing the vibrant atmosphere of a grand festival in the city of Baghdad. Rimsky-Korsakov weaves together various musical motifs and themes from previous movements, creating a sense of coherence and unity. The music transitions through different sections, from the majestic Lento to the lively Vivace, creating contrasting moods and atmospheres. The composer reintroduces the main Scheherazade violin theme, intertwining it with Sultan Shakhriar's theme, evoking a sense of confrontation and resolution. A reiteration of the fanfare motif symbolizes the shipwreck, building tension and drama. As the movement progresses towards its conclusion, Rimsky-Korsakov masterfully resolves the conflicting relationship between the subdominant minor Shakhriar's theme and the tonic major of the Scheherazade theme (Plagal Cadence), leading to a fantastical, lyrical, and ultimately peaceful ending.
Through its intricate musical structures, innovative orchestration, and meticulous attention to detail, "Scheherazade" transports the listener into a world of imagination and storytelling. Rimsky-Korsakov's masterful use of dynamics, melodic motifs, and thematic development imbues each movement with its own unique character and purpose. From the vastness of the sea to the introspection of personal journeys, from tender romance to grand celebrations, the symphonic journey of "Scheherazade" embraces the power of music to evoke emotions, paint vivid images, and captivate the listener's imagination.
Meanings of musical terms:
2. Leitmotif: A short, recurring theme throughout the musical piece.
3. Major third: It is an interval encompassing 4 semitones or 3 positions on the stave.
4. Intermezzo: Interlude
5. Coda: Passage that brings the piece of music to an end.
6. Largo e maestoso: Slowly but majestically.
7. Allegro non troppo: Fast but not too much
8. Andantino: Walking Pace
9. Andantino quasi allegretto: Fairly quick walking pace
10. Pochissimo più mosso: A little more movement
11. Come prima: As before
12. Allegro molto: Very Fast
13. Lento: Slow
14. Vivace: Lively
15. Subdominant minor: 4th tonal degree of the diatonic scale(IV or i)
16. Tonic major: 1st tonal degree of the diatonic scale(I)
17. Plagal Cadence: Cadence between IV and I
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