Description
Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake ‘Main Theme‘
Professionally arranged for piano
Letter-names (note labels) have been added to every note. These include any and all “accidentals” (sharps, flats, naturals, etc.).
Key: A-minor (easier to read)
The original published key of this section of Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake Ballet is ‘B-minor,’ basically right next door to A-minor, pitch-wise. I chose the key of A-minor for a couple of reasons: (1) It makes for an easier read, when following the letter-note name labels, because B-minor has more sharps and such, which crowds the note-labeling more; and (2) A-minor is generally easier to read and play in, than B-minor (for most).
Skill / Reading Level
As far as the reading and/or performing skills needed to play the full piece,* I judge this short piece to be “early-to-middle intermediate” level–I’m speaking in an informal and very flexible way here. The most challenging thing for some might be the octaves in this one–an OCTAVE being two notes of the same name, say “C,” but just seven scale-steps up (the C right “next door”), or seven scale-steps down, from each other.*
*GOOD NEWS: You don’t have to play any octave in here, you can always just choose the lower ‘C’ in this example, or the higher ‘C’. The full octaves sound cool and all, but if you just catch whatever notes of these pairs that you can–the piece will still sound complete!
Performance Time
At 60 beats-per-minute (60 BPM: Quarter-notes get the beat):
- One time through is about 1:40 (one minute, 40 seconds).
- Twice through (this works too), 3:20 (three minutes, 20 seconds).
Support – Help – Feedback – Requests
PLEASE VISIT MY CONTACT PAGE for questions, download issues, suggestions, requests, you name it!
If, at any time, you are unhappy with this arrangement of Swan Lake Main Theme, or anything else related to your purchase, I will gladly issue you a full refund, no questions asked!
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The arranger and professional engraver of this sheet music, Kent D. Smith (me), is a college-degreed music instructor.
This is a printable PDF file, available for immediate (and subsequent) downloads.*
*Download limit: Eight (8) times, from any device (smart phone, tablet, laptop, etc.).
Thank you so much, I hope you will get much enjoyment from playing this professionally arranged Swan Lake Main Theme for piano, with letters and notes together. These are beautiful and haunting melodies in Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake; and I am staying true to the original melodies and harmonies from Tchaikovsky’s original main theme, in this exclusive arrangement.
ABOUT SWAN LAKE
Swan Lake, composed by the illustrious Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1875–76, stands as one of the most beloved and enduring ballets of all time1. Its enchanting tale of love, magic, and transformation has captivated audiences for generations.
The Story
At the heart of Swan Lake lies the poignant story of Prince Siegfried and the mysterious Swan Princess, Odette. Here are the key elements:
- The Curse: Odette, a beautiful princess, has been transformed into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse. By day, she glides gracefully on Swan Lake, but at night, she reverts to her true form—a young woman trapped in avian guise.
- The Prince’s Quest: Prince Siegfried, during a moonlit hunt, encounters Odette and falls deeply in love with her. Determined to break the curse, he pledges eternal fidelity to her.
- The Deception: Enter the malevolent Baron Von Rothbart, who disguises his own daughter, Odile, as Odette. Siegfried, deceived by the enchanting Odile, unknowingly betrays his vow to Odette.
- The Tragic Climax: As dawn approaches, Siegfried realizes his mistake. Heartbroken, he rushes back to Swan Lake, where Odette awaits. Their love transcends the mortal realm, leading to a bittersweet finale.
The Ballet’s Evolution
- Swan Lake initially faced failure upon its premiere in 1877, but fate had other plans. Over time, it blossomed into a masterpiece, captivating audiences worldwide.
- The original choreographer, Julius Reisinger, brought the story to life at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow. However, it was the 1895 revival by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov that solidified its place in ballet history.
- Tchaikovsky’s hauntingly beautiful score was revised for this revival by Riccardo Drigo, the chief conductor of the St. Petersburg Imperial Theatre.
Iconic Moments
- The ethereal White Swan Pas de Deux, where Siegfried and Odette express their love through dance.
- The dramatic Black Swan Pas de Deux, where Siegfried is ensnared by Odile’s enchantment.
- The mesmerizing ensemble of swan maidens, their synchronized movements evoking the grace and mystery of these mystical creatures.
Legacy
- Swan Lake continues to inspire choreographers, dancers, and dreamers alike.
- Its timeless themes—love, betrayal, and redemption—resonate across cultures and generations.
- As the moon reflects on tranquil waters, so does the magic of Swan Lake linger in our hearts.
So, dear reader, when you hear the haunting strains of Tchaikovsky’s music, imagine the moon-kissed swans gliding across the moonlit lake—a testament to the enduring power of art and love.
Swan Lake remains a jewel in the crown of classical ballet, forever enchanting those who dare to dream beyond the ordinary.
