Pulcinella

Definition

Pulcinella is a ballet composed by Igor Stravinsky in 1920, which marked a significant moment in his neoclassical period. This work draws inspiration from the commedia dell'arte character Pulcinella, known for his cleverness and playful nature, and it reinterprets earlier music, particularly that of Giovanni Battista Pergolesi. The ballet reflects Stravinsky's shift towards a style that emphasizes clarity, balance, and a return to classical forms, while infusing contemporary sensibilities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pulcinella premiered on May 15, 1920, at the Théâtre de la Gaîté in Paris and was part of a larger collaboration with choreographer Léonide Massine and the Ballets Russes.
2. The score of Pulcinella consists of arrangements of existing works attributed to Pergolesi and others, showcasing Stravinsky's innovative approach to reworking historical music.
3. The ballet combines elements of humor and drama through its vibrant choreography and character-driven narrative, reflecting both the essence of the commedia dell'arte tradition and Stravinsky's modern sensibility.
4. Stravinsky's use of orchestration in Pulcinella is notable for its clarity and transparency, contrasting with the dense textures often found in his earlier works.
5. The success of Pulcinella contributed to Stravinsky's reputation as a key figure in the neoclassical movement, influencing future composers to explore similar ideas of blending old and new musical styles.

Review Questions

• How does Pulcinella illustrate Stravinsky's transition into neoclassicism?
  • Pulcinella illustrates Stravinsky's transition into neoclassicism through its blending of older musical styles with contemporary compositional techniques. By reinterpreting music from composers like Pergolesi, Stravinsky demonstrates his ability to revive classical forms while infusing them with modern sensibilities. The work emphasizes clarity and balance in orchestration, which aligns with neoclassical ideals while showcasing Stravinsky's innovative spirit.
• Discuss the significance of the character Pulcinella within the context of the ballet and its cultural origins.
  • The character Pulcinella holds great significance as it embodies the spirit of commedia dell'arte, where humor, wit, and cleverness are central themes. In the ballet, this character adds layers to the narrative by engaging in playful antics that reflect both his mischievous nature and deeper emotional struggles. This connection to commedia dell'arte enriches the ballet's cultural context, drawing on historical theatrical traditions to create a lively and engaging performance.
• Evaluate the impact of Pulcinella on the development of neoclassical music and its influence on later composers.
  • Pulcinella had a profound impact on the development of neoclassical music by setting a precedent for other composers to explore historical influences while maintaining a modern approach. The successful blend of classical forms with contemporary ideas inspired subsequent generations to adopt similar methodologies in their compositions. This work encouraged a broader acceptance of neoclassicism within the music community, leading to new interpretations of past styles that resonate throughout 20th-century music.

Related terms

Neoclassicism: An artistic movement that emerged in the 20th century, characterized by a return to classical ideals, forms, and techniques in art, literature, and music.

Commedia dell'arte: An Italian theatrical form that began in the 16th century, featuring stock characters and improvised performances, with Pulcinella being one of its iconic figures.

Stravinsky's ballets: A series of influential ballets composed by Igor Stravinsky, including 'The Firebird', 'Petrushka', and 'The Rite of Spring', which transformed the landscape of early 20th-century music and dance.