The Rite of Spring (Le Sacre du printemps)
Igor Stravinsky
Work background
Researched classical background
The Rite of Spring was conceived as a ballet about imagined ancient rites culminating in a sacrificial dance. Stravinsky developed the scenario with Nicholas Roerich, and the original production was choreographed by Vaslav Nijinsky. Its orchestral writing places unusual registers, layered patterns, and sharply accented rhythms at the center of the drama. The complete score comprises two large parts.
Inspiration and creative background
The documented ballet scenario concerns an imagined prehistoric spring ritual and the sacrifice of a chosen maiden.
The Rite of Spring - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
A listening guide
Listen for repeating patterns whose accents move, creating tension even when a figure stays similar.
Listening suggestions are editorial guides to the music.
Forces: Large orchestra
Premiere: 1913
The premiere took place in Paris in 1913; composition and scenario development began earlier.
This entry describes the musical work or cycle. Composition, premiere and publication dates describe different events. Performers and recordings can be explored through the external listening search.
Also known as: Le sacre du printemps
The Rite of Spring - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
Sources for this work
The Rite of Spring - LA Phil
Work identity, chronology where stated, and the specific musical or historical context summarized in this entry. | Reviewed 2026-10-19
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