Leonard Bernstein: Symphonic Dances from West Side Story [hr-Sinfonieorchester, Orozco-Estrada]

Conducted by Andrés Orozco-Estrada, the hr-Sinfonieorchester (Frankfurt Radio Symphony Orchestra) performs Symphonic Dances from “West Side Story”, a musical with a book by Arthur Laurents, music by Leonard Bernstein. This performance was recorded during an open-air concert at the Weseler shipyard in Frankfurt on August 17, 2016.

West Side Story

West Side Story was inspired by William Shakespeare’s famous play Romeo and Juliet. It is a musical with a book by Arthur Laurents (July 14, 1917 – May 5, 2011) the American playwright, stage director, and screenwriter. Music by Leonard Bernstein, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim (born March 22, 1930, the American composer and lyricist), and conception and choreography by Jerome Robbins (October 11, 1918 – July 29, 1998, then American choreographer, director, dancer, and theater producer who worked in classical ballet, on Broadway, and in films and television).

The story is set in the Upper West Side neighborhood in New York City in the mid-1950s, an ethnic, blue-collar neighborhood (in the early 1960s much of the neighborhood would be cleared in an urban renewal project for the Lincoln Center, changing the neighborhood’s character).

The musical explores the rivalry between the Jets and the Sharks, two teenage street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds. The members of the Sharks, from Puerto Rico, are taunted by the Jets, a white gang. The young protagonist, Tony, a former member of the Jets and best friend of the gang leader, Riff, falls in love with Maria, the sister of Bernardo, the leader of the Sharks. The dark theme, sophisticated music, extended dance scenes, and focus on social problems marked a turning point in American musical theater.

Program

Prologue (Allegro moderato): The Prologue sets the tone with an urban, edgy energy that introduces the rivalry between the Jets and Sharks. Rhythmic and tense, it uses sharp, syncopated motifs to create an atmosphere of simmering conflict, capturing the gritty reality of New York’s streets. The music builds with a sense of suspense, establishing the dramatic stakes of the story.
Somewhere (Adagio): This lyrical section presents the iconic theme of Somewhere, evoking hope and the dream of a peaceful future. The melody is tender and haunting, representing Tony and Maria’s yearning for a world free of violence. Its adagio tempo and gentle orchestration create a poignant contrast, underscoring the emotional core of their romance.
Scherzo (Vivace leggiero): The Scherzo is light and playful, capturing the fleeting moments of joy and innocence that Tony and Maria imagine in their idealized world. It flits between sections of the orchestra, giving a sense of whimsy and freedom as if escaping the harsh reality of their surroundings. The vivacious tempo lends an air of fantasy.
Mambo (Presto): Explosive and full of Latin rhythm, Mambo brings the vibrant energy of the Sharks’ culture into full focus. With its rapid pace and bold brass sections, it celebrates life and individuality. The music is intense, with lively syncopations and fierce dynamics, encapsulating the passion and pride of the characters.
Cha-Cha (Andantino con grazia): The Cha-Cha accompanies the moment when Tony and Maria meet at the gym dance, capturing their immediate attraction. Its graceful, swaying rhythm reflects a sensual elegance, standing apart from the bustling energy of the other dances. This music is gentle yet charged, embodying their first, tentative connection.
Meeting Szene (Meno mosso): Meeting Szene continues the delicate theme as Tony and Maria’s encounter unfolds. Slower and reflective, it amplifies their romantic chemistry while expressing the tension of their forbidden love. The subtle shifts in tempo and dynamic emphasize the vulnerability of this moment, contrasting the chaos surrounding them.
Cool – Fugue (Allegretto): The Cool fugue introduces a jazzy, intricate theme, reflecting the Jets’ attempt to maintain composure and avoid conflict. Its contrapuntal structure adds complexity, with layered lines creating a sense of mounting tension and controlled aggression. The music swings between restraint and agitation, mirroring the struggle to stay “cool.”
Rumble (Molto allegro): The Rumble is fast-paced and intense, representing the violent clash between the Jets and Sharks. The relentless tempo and powerful orchestration build an atmosphere of danger and inevitability. This section uses dissonant harmonies and forceful rhythms to portray the brutality of the conflict, leading to an emotionally charged climax.
Finale (Adagio): The Finale brings the piece to a somber close, reflecting the tragedy that has unfolded. The music is slow and mournful, revisiting the Somewhere theme with a sense of loss and fragility. It captures the grief and unresolved tension left in the wake of the story, leaving the listener with a lingering sense of poignancy.