Ballet: The Four Temperaments (Paul Hindemith, 1946)
Introduction
Ballet: The Four Temperaments is a seminal work in the world of ballet, choreographed by George Balanchine with music composed by Paul Hindemith. Premiering on November 20, 1946, at the Central High School of Needle Trades in New York City, this ballet is a cornerstone of the neoclassical ballet repertoire. The ballet does not follow a traditional narrative but instead explores the concept of the four temperaments—Melancholic, Sanguinic, Phlegmatic, and Choleric—through abstract dance movements.
Historical Background
Creation and Development
The creation of The Four Temperaments occurred in a post-World War II era, a time marked by significant social and artistic changes. The ballet was conceived during a period when Balanchine was exploring new forms of expression in dance, moving away from the narrative-driven ballets of the 19th century to more abstract and modern interpretations. The inspiration behind the ballet comes from the ancient Greek theory of the four humors, which posited that human behavior is influenced by four bodily fluids: blood, phlegm, black bile, and yellow bile. This theory was translated into a modern context by Balanchine and Hindemith, who sought to express these temperaments through movement and music.
The collaboration between Balanchine and Hindemith was crucial to the development of the ballet. Hindemith’s score, originally composed as a piano piece in 1940 and later orchestrated, provided a rich, complex musical landscape that Balanchine used to craft his choreography. The partnership between the choreographer and composer was marked by mutual respect and a shared vision for the ballet.
Premiere and Reception
The Four Temperaments premiered on November 20, 1946, at the Central High School of Needle Trades in New York City. The initial reception was mixed, with some critics praising the innovative choreography and others finding it too abstract. However, over time, the ballet gained recognition as a groundbreaking work. Notable early performances included those by the Ballet Society, which later became the New York City Ballet, solidifying the ballet’s place in the company’s repertoire.
Synopsis of the Ballet
The Four Temperaments is a one-act ballet that does not follow a traditional narrative structure. Instead, it is divided into five sections: Theme, Melancholic, Sanguinic, Phlegmatic, and Choleric. Each section represents one of the four temperaments, with the Theme serving as an introduction.
Theme
The ballet opens with the Theme, a series of movements that introduce the audience to the abstract nature of the work. The dancers perform a series of intricate steps and formations, setting the stage for the exploration of the four temperaments.
Melancholic
The Melancholic section is characterized by slow, introspective movements. The choreography reflects a sense of sadness and contemplation, with the lead dancer often performing solo sequences that convey a deep emotional struggle.
Sanguinic
In contrast, the Sanguinic section is lively and energetic. The choreography is upbeat and joyful, with fast-paced movements and intricate footwork. This section often features a pas de deux, showcasing the technical prowess and exuberance of the dancers.
Phlegmatic
The Phlegmatic section is marked by calm, fluid movements. The choreography emphasizes smooth transitions and a sense of tranquility. The lead dancer’s movements are controlled and measured, reflecting the phlegmatic temperament’s characteristic calmness and composure.
Choleric
The final section, Choleric, is intense and dynamic. The choreography is aggressive and forceful, with sharp, angular movements. This section often features powerful jumps and turns, conveying the fiery and passionate nature of the choleric temperament.
Finale
The ballet concludes with a reprise of the Theme, bringing the exploration of the four temperaments full circle. The dancers come together in a final formation, leaving the audience with a sense of completion and unity.
Musical Composition
Composer’s Role
Paul Hindemith, a prominent German composer, played a crucial role in the creation of The Four Temperaments. Known for his complex and innovative compositions, Hindemith’s music provided the perfect backdrop for Balanchine’s choreography. The score for The Four Temperaments is notable for its use of counterpoint and its intricate structure, which mirrors the complexity of the choreography.
Musical Themes and Motifs
The score for The Four Temperaments features several recurring musical themes and motifs that correspond to the different temperaments. For example, the Melancholic section is characterized by slow, somber melodies, while the Sanguinic section features lively, upbeat rhythms. These musical themes enhance the narrative and emotional impact of the ballet, providing a rich auditory experience that complements the visual elements.
Famous Recordings and Performances
There have been several notable recordings and performances of Hindemith’s score for The Four Temperaments. One of the most famous recordings is by the New York City Ballet Orchestra, conducted by Robert Irving. This recording captures the intricate details of Hindemith’s composition and has been praised for its fidelity to the original score.
Choreography and Dance
Choreographer’s Vision
George Balanchine’s vision for The Four Temperaments was to create a ballet that explored the abstract concept of human temperaments through movement. Balanchine’s choreography is characterized by its use of neoclassical techniques, blending traditional ballet steps with modern, innovative movements. His interpretation of the four temperaments is both literal and abstract, using the dancers’ bodies to convey the emotional and psychological characteristics of each temperament.
Signature Dance Numbers
One of the key dance numbers in The Four Temperaments is the pas de deux in the Sanguinic section. This duet showcases the technical skill and exuberance of the dancers, with fast-paced movements and intricate footwork. Another notable dance number is the solo in the Melancholic section, which features slow, introspective movements that convey a deep sense of sadness and contemplation.
Notable Interpretations
Over the years, different productions of The Four Temperaments have interpreted Balanchine’s choreography in various ways. Some productions have emphasized the abstract nature of the ballet, while others have focused on the emotional and psychological aspects of the temperaments. Notable interpretations include those by the New York City Ballet, which has performed the ballet numerous times since its premiere, and the Paris Opera Ballet, which has brought its own unique style to the work.
Characters and Roles
Main Characters
The Four Temperaments does not have traditional characters in the way that narrative ballets do. Instead, the dancers represent the different temperaments: Melancholic, Sanguinic, Phlegmatic, and Choleric. Each temperament is characterized by specific movements and styles of dance that convey their unique emotional and psychological traits.
Supporting Characters
In addition to the lead dancers representing the four temperaments, there are also supporting dancers who perform in the Theme and throughout the different sections. These dancers help to create the overall atmosphere of the ballet and provide a backdrop for the lead dancers’ performances.
Famous Dancers
Several notable dancers have performed in The Four Temperaments over the years. Among them are Tanaquil Le Clercq, who was one of Balanchine’s muses and performed in the original production, and Suzanne Farrell, who brought her own unique style to the role of Sanguinic. More recently, dancers like Wendy Whelan and Sara Mearns have continued to bring new interpretations to the ballet.
Cultural and Artistic Impact
Influence on Ballet and Dance
The Four Temperaments has had a significant influence on the world of ballet and dance. Its innovative choreography and abstract approach have inspired other choreographers to explore new forms of expression in dance. The ballet is considered a cornerstone of the neoclassical ballet repertoire and has played a crucial role in the development of ballet as an art form.
Cultural Significance
The Four Temperaments holds a special place in popular culture and has been referenced in various forms of media. Its exploration of human temperaments has resonated with audiences and has been adapted in different contexts, including film and theater. The ballet’s abstract nature allows for a wide range of interpretations, making it a versatile and enduring work.
Legacy and Revivals
The Four Temperaments continues to be performed and celebrated today. Major revivals have been staged by companies like the New York City Ballet and the Paris Opera Ballet, ensuring that new generations of dancers and audiences can experience this groundbreaking work. The ballet’s legacy is also evident in its influence on contemporary choreographers, who continue to draw inspiration from Balanchine’s innovative approach.
Iconic Productions
Historic Productions
One of the most famous historical productions of The Four Temperaments was its premiere by the Ballet Society in 1946. This production featured some of Balanchine’s most talented dancers and set the standard for future performances. Another notable production was the 1951 revival by the New York City Ballet, which helped to solidify the ballet’s place in the company’s repertoire.
Contemporary Productions
Recent productions of The Four Temperaments have brought new interpretations to the ballet. Companies like the Paris Opera Ballet and the Royal Ballet have staged their own versions, each bringing a unique style and perspective to the work. These contemporary productions often incorporate modern elements while staying true to Balanchine’s original vision.
Production Design
The production design for The Four Temperaments has evolved over the years. The original production featured simple sets and costumes, allowing the focus to remain on the dancers and the choreography. More recent productions have experimented with different set designs, lighting, and costumes to enhance the overall atmosphere of the ballet. However, the minimalist approach remains a hallmark of the ballet’s design, emphasizing the abstract nature of the work.
Critical Reception and Reviews
Initial Critical Response
The initial critical response to The Four Temperaments was mixed. Some critics praised Balanchine’s innovative choreography and Hindemith’s complex score, while others found the ballet too abstract and difficult to understand. Over time, however, the ballet gained recognition as a groundbreaking work and received more favorable reviews.
Modern Reviews
Contemporary critics and audiences have come to appreciate The Four Temperaments for its innovative approach and artistic depth. The ballet is now considered a masterpiece of neoclassical ballet and is praised for its exploration of human temperaments through movement and music. Modern reviews often highlight the technical skill of the dancers and the emotional impact of the choreography.
Fun Facts and Trivia
Behind-the-Scenes Stories
One interesting behind-the-scenes story involves the collaboration between Balanchine and Hindemith. Despite their different backgrounds and artistic styles, the two artists found common ground in their desire to create a ballet that explored abstract concepts. Their partnership was marked by mutual respect and a shared vision for the work.
Notable Performers
Several famous dancers have been associated with The Four Temperaments over the years. Tanaquil Le Clercq, one of Balanchine’s muses, performed in the original production and brought her unique style to the role of Sanguinic. Suzanne Farrell, another of Balanchine’s muses, also performed in the ballet and is known for her interpretation of the role.
Trivia
- The Four Temperaments was one of the first ballets to be performed by the New York City Ballet, which was founded by Balanchine and Lincoln Kirstein in 1948.
- The ballet’s score was originally composed as a piano piece by Hindemith in 1940 and later orchestrated for the ballet.
- The concept of the four temperaments dates back to ancient Greek medicine and was used to explain human behavior and personality.
Conclusion
Summary of the Ballet’s Importance
The Four Temperaments is a significant work in the world of ballet, known for its innovative choreography and complex musical score. The ballet’s exploration of human temperaments through abstract movement has had a lasting impact on the art form and continues to inspire new generations of dancers and choreographers.
Final Thoughts
The Four Temperaments remains a timeless work that challenges and captivates audiences with its unique blend of music and dance. Whether you are a seasoned ballet enthusiast or new to the art form, this ballet offers a rich and rewarding experience that is well worth exploring. We encourage readers to watch a performance or listen to the score to fully appreciate the artistry and innovation of this groundbreaking work.
FAQ
What is the central theme of this ballet?
The central theme of The Four Temperaments is the exploration of human temperaments—Melancholic, Sanguinic, Phlegmatic, and Choleric—through abstract dance movements.
Who are the main characters in this ballet?
The ballet does not have traditional characters. Instead, the dancers represent the different temperaments: Melancholic, Sanguinic, Phlegmatic, and Choleric.
What is the most famous dance number in this ballet?
One of the most famous dance numbers is the pas de deux in the Sanguinic section, known for its lively and intricate choreography.
How long does a typical performance of this ballet last?
A typical performance of The Four Temperaments lasts approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
Are there any modern adaptations of this ballet?
Yes, there have been several modern adaptations and revivals of The Four Temperaments by various ballet companies around the world.
Why is this ballet considered important in the history of dance?
The Four Temperaments is considered important because of its innovative choreography, complex musical score, and its role in the development of neoclassical ballet. It has had a lasting impact on the art form and continues to inspire new generations of dancers and choreographers.
