Camille Saint-Saëns

Danse Macabre

Danse Macabre, or Dance of Death, is one of the most famous works by Camille Saint-Saëns. The composition is based on the poem of the same name by Henri Cazalis (1840-1909). The dance of death is musically represented with various effects, starting with twelve strokes of the clock - which of course suggest midnight. Then dissonant sounds and a somewhat wistful waltz melody follow. A thematic build-up full of tempo changes leads to an intense majestuoso, which ends abruptly, after which a melancholy farewell melody takes over. This wonderful symphonic poem appeals to everyone's imagination - as it will in this expert arrangement for accordion orchestra.