We have a collection of 14 arrangements for Camille Saint-Saëns — Danse macabre, Op. 40
How did Saint-Saëns transform a medieval legend into a symphonic masterpiece? Learn!
"Danse Macabre," Op. 40, is a famous tone poem composed by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns. Here are some interesting facts about this piece:
Inspiration: Saint-Saëns drew inspiration from a poem of the same name by Henri Cazalis. The poem describes Death summoning the dead from their graves to dance for him while he plays the fiddle. The music vividly captures this eerie and macabre atmosphere.
Composition: Saint-Saëns wrote "Danse Macabre" in 1874 during a summer vacation in Austria. It was originally a tone poem for voice and piano, but he later orchestrated it.
Famous Violin Solo: One of the most recognizable elements of the piece is the prominent violin solo that represents Death playing the fiddle. The violin's eerie trill and the use of the xylophone contribute to the spooky atmosphere.
The Devil's Interval: The piece features the tritone, often called "the devil's interval" due to its dissonant and unsettling sound. Saint-Saëns uses this interval to create a sense of unease and tension throughout the composition.
Halloween Association: Due to its eerie and haunting nature, "Danse Macabre" is often associated with Halloween and has been featured in various movies, TV shows, and commercials with a spooky theme.
Orchestration: Saint-Saëns orchestrated the piece for a standard symphony orchestra, including strings, woodwinds, brass, percussion, and harp. The orchestral version premiered in 1875.
Influence on Popular Culture: The theme of "Danse Macabre" has been used in various forms in popular culture, including in animated films and video games. Its distinctive melody has made it a memorable and widely recognized piece.
"Danse Macabre" is a captivating and evocative composition that continues to be celebrated for its unique portrayal of the macabre theme.