Adagio from "Cinderella" for cello and piano by Sergei Prokofiev
Edited by Harold Sheldon. Published by Sikorski
Sergei Prokofiev (1891-1953) was a significant composer of the 20th century and one of Russia's most important composers. His music is instantly recognizable by its offbeat, song-like lyricism, distinct, often crunchy harmonies, and sharp, driving energy. His early work abroad gave him a reputation as a modernist enfant terrible; later, after returning to Russia, his style took on satirical and ironic elements, as well as more outwardly melodic textures. He is best known for his operas, symphonies, and concertos, though his chamber and solo music is also standard fare for string players.
Prokofiev's fairy-tale ballet "Cinderella" (1945) was composed in the wake of the wild success of his "Romeo and Juliet" ballet; however, composition and production were both delayed by the dual challenges of WWII and the breakdown of his marriage. While waiting for the ballet to be mounted, he cast the Adagio for cellos depicting the first dance of Cinderella and the Prince into this beautiful arrangement for cello and piano. Intermediate-advanced level, Grade 4.
