The Nutcracker Ballet, Op. 71 by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1892), transcribed for Chamber Orchestra.
The Critical Edition.
This transcription faithfully reproduces the entirety of Tchaikovsky’s original full orchestra score, only for 26 instrument chamber orchestra transcribed by Michael Drapkin. The premiere took place on December 8, 2023 at the Venice Performing Arts Center in Florida by the Venice Symphony with Joseph Caulkins conducting. Available via rental.
Below are videos of the live premiere performance, made by hi-def camera at the back of the concert hall. This unedited video contains audience noise. Click the bottom right box for full screen.
The Nutcracker Ballet, Act 1, transcribed for chamber orchestra by Michael Drapkin. Live premiere performance.
The Nutcracker Ballet, Act 2, transcribed for chamber orchestra by Michael Drapkin. Live premiere performance.
The Nutcracker Ballet, Act 1, transcribed for chamber orchestra by Michael Drapkin. Score playback generated by Sibelius with NotePerformer.<\strong>
The Nutcracker Ballet, Act 2, transcribed for chamber orchestra by Michael Drapkin. Score playback generated by Sibelius with NotePerformer.<\strong>
Michael’s well-crafted transcription maintains what Tchaikovsky intended yet makes this work available to those with leaner budgets or smaller forces to perform this timeless classic.
Joseph Caulkins, Artistic Director, Key Chorale and Nutcracker conductor.