Igor Stravinsky's ballet 'The Firebird' was commissioned by Sergei Diaghilev for his Ballets Russes after he was impressed by Stravinsky's earlier orchestral works.
Notable Performances
The premiere of Stravinsky's 'The Firebird' at the Paris Opéra made the then relatively unknown composer an overnight international sensation.
Interpretation
Clarinetist Sabine Meyer joins the Alliage Quintet on this album, adding solo accents, taking higher registers, and blending elegantly with the saxophones.
Cultural Impact
Borodin's Polovetsian Dances, originally from his opera 'Prince Igor', became a huge success as a ballet choreographed by Michel Fokine for Diaghilev's Ballets Russes.
Cultural Impact
The Broadway musical 'Kismet' featured Borodin's Polovetsian Dances, leading to the international hit song 'Stranger in Paradise' performed by Tony Bennett.
Album & Artwork
The album, titled 'Fantasia', features the Alliage Quintet and clarinetist Sabine Meyer, retelling fairytales and stories through well-known symphonic works.
Interpretation
The Alliage Quintet, consisting of four saxophones and a pianist, aims to create the illusion of a symphony orchestra through specially arranged symphonic works.
