🇫🇷Charles Camille Saint-Saëns ： Le Carnaval des animaux

This suite in 14 movements portrays the appearance and character of animals through witty musical depictions. Written for a chamber ensemble including two pianos, it moves through powerful marches, light and humorous pieces, and fantastical, quiet scenes. The contrasts between the sparkling sonorities of “Aquarium,” the long-breathed melody of “The Swan,” and the striking rhythms of “Fossils” are among its highlights. In performance, it is important to make changes of tone color and expression clear from one scene to the next, while keeping the roles of melody and accompaniment distinct. Attention not only to lively tempos but also to delicate soft dynamics and ensemble breathing will bring out the work’s humor and poetic character more vividly.