From "Faust" to Paganini, stories about devilish temptations have inspired a long list of classical works.
Faculty members from the Interlochen Arts Academy Music and Theatre Departments and Classical IPR host Keith Brown are taking one on this Sunday: Stravinsky's "The Soldier's Tale."
The work, staged for a septet and three actors, tells the story of a young soldier who's received an offer from the devil - his violin for a book of untold riches.
Dances and jazz-influenced music meet Stravinsky's signature ostinatos as the soldier navigates his decision's unforeseen consequences.
Conductor and Interlochen Arts Academy Chair of Large Ensembles Matthew Schlomer says this performance gives students the opportunity to attend an all-professional performance, combining an important pillar of the Arts Academy's music curriculum with a story that resonates with students.
"Our students are with us at Interlochen during a precious season of life filled with crossroads and major life decisions. They constantly have to ask themselves how far they're willing to go to achieve their goals and dreams," he says.
The performance will be at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 5 in the Dendrinos Chapel and Recital Hall and is free and open to the public.
Hear our recordings of one of the ensemble's dress rehearsals below.
Narrator: Keith Brown
Soldier: Laura Mittelstaedt
Devil: Gulshrin Dubash
Violin: Ara Sarkissian
Bass: Derek Weller
Clarinet: Bryan Conger
Bassoon: Eric Stomberg
Trumpet: Ken Larson
Trombone: Tom Riccobono
Percussion: Keith Aleo
Conductor: Matthew Schlomer
