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Kate Molleson explores the multiple legends and lore of Igor Stravinsky, from fables and rituals, to folk tales, myths and religious ceremonies.

Beginning today with the biggest myth of them all: the Rite of Spring. Or, more specifically, the opening night of the ballet of that name, performed by Sergey Diaghilev’s Ballet Russes to Stravinsky’s music. The event was a success de scandale. But the degree to which the fevered reaction was due to Stravinsky’s music is still up for debate.

Either way, the furore suited Stravinsky and Diaghilev just fine.

The Rite was hailed by some as the apex of modernity, but it was an old, old story: rooted in a pagan, prehistoric world and climaxing with the sacrifice of a woman to the sun – a totemic work in Stravinsky’s early fascination for the folk culture of his native Russia.

Rite of Spring, Part 1: Adoration of the Earth
musicAeterna
Teodor Currentzis, conductor

Fireworks
Lucerne Festival Orchestra
Riccardo Chailly, conductor

Russian Dance, from Three Movements from Petrushka
Daniil Trifonov, piano

Infernal Dance, from The Firebird
Orchestre de Paris
Klaus Mäkelä, conductor

The Rite of Spring, Part 2: The Sacrifice
NHK Symphony Orchestra
Paavo Järvi, conductor