Tchaikovsky - The Nutcracker, Op.71 - Act I, No.2  March

This is the finale of Rossini's William Tell Overture. This section is also known as "March of the Swiss Soldiers." The popular rhythmic pattern is commonly associated with galloping horses both in cartoons and in real life.

This digital arrangement was based on the original score. Instrumentation consists of a piccolo, a flute, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, four french horns, two trumpets, three trombones, timpani, a triangle, cymbals, and section strings.

All parts were recorded using EastWest/Quantum Leap Symphonic Orchestra.

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Rossini - William Tell Overture (Finale)

Nutcracker - March of The Toy Soldiers

Nutcracker - Russian Dance (Trepak)

Nutcracker - Chinese Dance

Nutcracker - Dance of The Reed Flutes

The finale is a high-energy collision of worlds. We start with the driving strings and distinct textures of Vivaldi, building momentum until the piece transforms into the jazz-inflected harmonies and rhythms of Gershwin. It features big orchestration and technical piano work, bringing the concerto to a fitting, exuberant close. Read more about the story behind this music in my memoir, "The Keeper," at michaeljcriss.com.

Vivaldi and Gershwin

"Toccata and Fugue in D Minor" is a famous musical composition for the organ. Composed by the Baroque maestro Bach, the piece is regarded as being the virtuoso's signature. Renowned for its regal and majestic resonance, dramatic command and titular opening motif, this piece  reveals the mastery of the performer's "touch" upon the organ's keys through its poignant and swiftly paced arpeggios. In western culture, the piece has developed an association with horror movies.

Toccata and Fugue in D Minor, BWV 565 - Bach

Antonín Dvořák - New World Symphony, 4th Movement

Edvard Grieg - In the Hall of the Mountain King

The bustling overture to CARMEN bursts out of the gate with lively music from the bullfighting scene of Act 4, interrupted by the well-known tune of Escamillo’s “Toreador Song.” Pier Giorgio Morandi conducts the orchestra of Seattle Opera.
Image: Miki De Goodaboom

Nutcracker - Russian Dance (Trepak)

Carles Piles

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