We have a collection of 14 arrangements for Camille Saint-Saëns - Danse macabre, Op. 40
What musical instrument mimics the sound of dancing skeletons in this composition? Learn!
"Danse macabre, Op. 40" is a famous composition by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. Here are some interesting facts about this piece:
Inspired by a poem: Saint-Saëns composed "Danse macabre" in 1874, drawing inspiration from a poem of the same name written by Henri Cazalis. The poem describes skeletons coming to life at midnight on Halloween and dancing to the music of a fiddle played by Death.
It was originally a song: Before becoming an orchestral tone poem, "Danse macabre" was initially composed as a song for voice and piano. Saint-Saëns later orchestrated it, turning it into the familiar piece we know today.
The xylophone's eerie role: One of the distinctive features of "Danse macabre" is the use of the xylophone to mimic the sound of rattling bones. Saint-Saëns used this instrument to add a spooky and eerie quality to the composition.
Premiered on Halloween: The orchestral version of "Danse macabre" premiered on October 24, 1875, just a week before Halloween. This timing added to the piece's mystique and contributed to its association with the spooky holiday.
The piece is in rondo form: "Danse macabre" is structured in rondo form, which means that a recurring theme alternates with contrasting sections. The main theme, heard at the beginning and throughout the piece, is a catchy and memorable melody.
Literary and artistic influence: The theme of the dance of death, or "danse macabre," has a long history in European literature and art. Saint-Saëns' composition is just one of many works inspired by this theme, which often serves as a reminder of the impermanence of life.
Use in popular culture: "Danse macabre" has been used in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, often to create a spooky or eerie atmosphere. Its recognizable melody has made it a go-to piece for Halloween-themed media.
Saint-Saëns' fascination with the supernatural: Saint-Saëns had a lifelong interest in the supernatural and the macabre, which is evident in his compositions like "Danse macabre" and his famous opera "Samson and Delilah," which features a dramatic Bacchanale scene.
Part of the Romantic era: "Danse macabre" is considered a quintessential example of Romantic music. It showcases the Romantic fascination with the mysterious, the otherworldly, and the dark side of life.
Durand & Cie: The piece was published by the French music publisher Durand & Cie and quickly gained popularity in France and around the world.
"Danse macabre" remains a beloved and enduring piece in the classical music repertoire, known for its evocative and haunting melody that captures the spirit of Halloween and the supernatural.