description Western Symphony Overview
Western Symphony, choreographed by George Balanchine in 1947, depicts a stark and unsettling vision of American industrialization through a mechanized pas de deux set to Stravinsky’s “Ebony Wood Wind,” featuring angular movements and a predominantly monochrome palette.
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Who choreographed the ballet Western Symphony?
"Western Symphony" was famously choreographed by George Balanchine for the New York City Ballet. Despite some catalogs confusing it with his industrial pieces, Balanchine actually choreographed this ballet in 1954 as a tribute to the American Old West.
What music is actually used in Balanchine's Western Symphony?
Instead of Stravinsky’s "Ebony Concerto," "Western Symphony" is set to traditional American folk songs orchestrated by Hershy Kay. The lively score features classic frontier tunes to complement the cowboy-and-dance-hall theme of the choreography.
What is the visual theme and costume design of Western Symphony?
Rather than a stark vision of industrialization, "Western Symphony" features dancers in colorful costumes inspired by cowboys and saloon girls. The choreography blends classical ballet technique with folk and western dance motifs.
Did George Balanchine ever choreograph a ballet to Stravinsky's Ebony Concerto?
Yes, George Balanchine did choreograph a distinct neoclassical ballet to Stravinsky’s "Ebony Concerto" for the New York City Ballet. However, this composition is entirely separate from the Americana-themed "Western Symphony" created in the 1950s.
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