Inside the Music
The Tale of Tsar Saltan

In The Tale of Tsar Saltan, composer Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov unfolds his talent as a musical master storyteller. Symphonic interludes like the "Flight of the Bumblebee", the "Three Wonders" or "The Tsar's Farewell and Departure" bring Prince Gvidon's adventures to life in such an imaginative way, that they have taken on a life of their own as popular concert pieces. But why does Rimsky-Korsakov have each of these interludes begin with fanfare music? What aesthetic or even ideological programme lies behind his use of simple folk melodies? And what exactly is the secret to his brilliant orchestration technique?

In this accessible lecture, music assistant Ouri Bronchti delves into Rimsky-Korsakov's evocative score. Accompanied by a pianist who will provide musical illustrations of the exposé, he will guide you step by step through the universe of this opera.

This event will conclude with a convivial reception!