The Rite of Spring - The 100 Year Shock-wave

Composer Igor Stravinsky

The Rite of Spring's percussive rhythms and violent score enraged its first listeners in 1913. In The Rite of Spring - The 100 Year Shock-wave, airing Wednesday, May 29, 2013 at 8 p.m. on Classical 91.5/FM-HD91.5-1, the ballet’s 100 year shock-wave is traced from its initial explosion on May 29, 1913 right up to the present time. The special features a brief interviews and first-hand recollections of the famous first night from Dame Marie Rambert, who was one of the dancers, and Igor Stravinsky, who was in the audience. They lead listeners through memories of the Berlin premiere in 1923 and the 50th anniversary performance in London conducted by Pierre Monteux. The program will also feature extended excerpts from “The Rite of Spring” as conducted by Valery Gergiev.