The Nutcracker

The San Francisco Ballet is performing The Nutcracker again this year. Peter Ilych Tchaikovsky wrote The Nutcracker.

The very first performance of The Nutcracker outside of Russia, first took place in England in 1934. The performance was staged by Nicholas Sergeyev. It was an unabridged version of The Nutcracker. The Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo performed The Nutcracker in New York. But it was an abridged version. It was set in 1940 by Alexandra Fedorova.

The ballet's very first full performance was set on December 24, 1944, by the SF Ballet. It was staged by William Christensen.

Pytor Ilyich Tchaikovsky was born on May 7, 1840 and died on November 6, 1893. Tchaikovsky was a Russian composer im the Romantic era. He wrote symphonies, operas, ballets, instrumental and chamber music.

Written by: Rubina H.

Who Are the Top 10 Composers?

Student: Rubina

The New York Times has launched an editorial package about the top 10 composers. Watch the videos, read the article, and write a feature article. What is writer Anthony Tommasini trying to do with his series of stories? Which composers does he highlight this week and why? For you, what is the most interesting highlight or aspect of each composers? Of the musicians presented this week, how would you rank each?

Because your article is a feature story, you should include more than just the basic elements and facts of a news story. How might you make these composers especially relevant to Hillwood Herald readers? As a musician, what does classical music mean to you?

Remember to include a photo for each composer, as well as captions and research credits.