We have a collection of 32 arrangements for Camille Saint-Saëns - Le carnaval des animaux (Part II)
What makes "The Swan" the most iconic movement from Carnival of the Animals? Learn!
"Le Carnaval des Animaux" (The Carnival of the Animals) is a delightful musical suite composed by Camille Saint-Saëns. Here are some interesting facts about this composition:
Composition Undercover: Saint-Saëns originally composed "Le Carnaval des Animaux" in 1886 but requested that it not be performed during his lifetime, except for private gatherings. He was concerned that the light-hearted nature of the piece would harm his reputation as a serious composer.
Movements Depicting Animals: The suite consists of 14 movements, each of which represents a different animal or group of animals. Some of the animals featured include lions, elephants, kangaroos, and swans. The music vividly portrays the characteristics and behaviors of these creatures.
Unpublished Until After His Death: Saint-Saëns' wishes were respected, and the piece was not published or publicly performed during his lifetime. It wasn't until after his death in 1921 that "Le Carnaval des Animaux" was first published and widely performed.
Private Premiere: The first known public performance of "Le Carnaval des Animaux" took place in February 1922, more than a year after Saint-Saëns' death. It was performed at a small, private concert in Paris.
Humorous Poems: Each movement is preceded by a humorous poem written by the French poet Francis Poulenc. These poems add an extra layer of whimsy to the composition and provide witty descriptions of the animals being depicted.
Rare Use of the Glass Harmonica: The suite features a glass harmonica, an instrument that was invented by Benjamin Franklin. It is used in the movement titled "Aquarium" to create an otherworldly and ethereal sound.
Popular and Beloved: Despite Saint-Saëns' initial reservations, "Le Carnaval des Animaux" has become one of his most popular and beloved works. It is often performed in concert halls around the world and is appreciated for its playful and charming character.
Musical References: Throughout the composition, Saint-Saëns playfully incorporates snippets of other well-known classical works, adding an element of musical humor. For example, you can hear a hint of Offenbach's "Can-Can" in the movement dedicated to kangaroos.
Dedication to Friends: Each movement is dedicated to a friend or acquaintance of Saint-Saëns, further personalizing the composition. For instance, the movement "Tortoises" is dedicated to the composer's music critic friend, Adolphe Jullien.
Rediscovery: "Le Carnaval des Animaux" was somewhat forgotten for many years, but it experienced a resurgence in popularity in the 20th century. It is now considered a classic of French music and is cherished for its whimsical and imaginative portrayal of the animal kingdom.
"Le Carnaval des Animaux" is a delightful and playful work by Camille Saint-Saëns that continues to captivate audiences with its humor and musical inventiveness.