We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Jacques Offenbach - Can-Can
What famous ballet contains the infernal gallop known as Can-Can? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover Jacques Offenbach: Master of Operetta
Jacques Offenbach was a French-German composer known for his operettas and the lively dance music that accompanied them. The "Can-Can" is one of his most famous compositions, and here are some interesting facts about him and this iconic piece of music:
Origin of the Can-Can: The Can-Can is a high-energy dance that originated in the working-class ballrooms of Montmartre, Paris, in the 1830s. It was originally known as the "cancan" because of the high-kicking dance moves.
Offenbach's Composition: Jacques Offenbach composed the Can-Can as part of his operetta "Orpheus in the Underworld" (Orphée aux enfers), which premiered in 1858. The Can-Can is featured in the operetta's "Infernal Galop" scene.
Controversial Lyrics: The lyrics of the Can-Can were quite controversial at the time, featuring humorous and risqué themes. The Can-Can dancers often sang suggestive lyrics, adding to the scandalous reputation of the dance.
Revival in the 20th Century: The Can-Can experienced a revival in the 20th century, particularly during the 1950s and 1960s. It became associated with the Moulin Rouge cabaret in Paris and was popularized in various films, including the 1952 movie "Moulin Rouge!" starring José Ferrer and Zsa Zsa Gabor.
High-Kicking Choreography: The Can-Can is known for its distinctive high-kicking choreography, which requires dancers to perform energetic, synchronized leg lifts. This aspect of the dance is visually striking and has become one of its defining features.
Influence on Popular Culture: The Can-Can has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years, making it one of the most recognizable and enduring pieces of dance music in popular culture.
Instrumentation: Offenbach's Can-Can is typically performed by a small orchestra and features lively, rhythmic music with a distinctive oom-pah rhythm. The use of the accordion is also common in renditions of the piece.
Beyond "Orpheus in the Underworld": While the Can-Can is most famously associated with "Orpheus in the Underworld," it has been performed independently as a standalone piece in various contexts and settings.
Cultural Icon: The Can-Can has become a symbol of French culture and the lively atmosphere of Parisian cabarets during the late 19th century. It embodies the spirit of the Belle Époque era in France.
Modern Adaptations: In addition to its traditional form, the Can-Can has been adapted and reimagined in various ways by contemporary choreographers and dancers, keeping it fresh and relevant in the modern dance world.
The Can-Can remains a beloved and iconic piece of music and dance, representing the vivacious and entertaining spirit of Jacques Offenbach's operettas and the cultural vibrancy of 19th-century Paris.