Judith (ballet)
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Judith is a solo work created by dancer/choreographer Martha Graham. William Schuman composed the music. Charles Hyman designed the original set, which was replaced almost immediately by one conceived by Isamu Noguchi. He also added jewelry and a headdress.[1] Jean Rosenthal provided the lighting. The piece premiered on January 4, 1950, at the Columbia Auditorium in Louisville, Kentucky.[2]
The idea for a "dance concerto" was proposed by Louise Kain, a patroness of the arts and a board member of the Louisville Philharmonic Society. She suggested Graham perform with the musicians in the manner of a musical concerto, with the dancer replacing the solo instrument. The plan was met with enthusiasm by all parties.[2]
Taken from the deuterocanonical books of the Bible (Apocrypha), the ballet is a dance dramatization of the story of Judith, the Hebrew widow who saves the city of Bethulia by seducing and beheading the invading Assyrian tyrant Holofernes.[3]
Synopsis and musical structure
In 1949, Graham turned to William Schuman for the score. They had collaborated two years earlier on the highly successful Night Journey.[4]
The music and dance advance in five uninterrupted movements. Graham performed in front of the orchestra, which was partially obscured behind a translucent panel.[2]
- I. Adagio - The piece opens with a dark adagio featuring muted strings punctuated by occasional solo woodwind and harsh brass. The section represents the plight of the Israelites, suffering and dying of thirst as Holofernes lays siege to their city. (Book of Judith 1-7:32, 4:40 minutes)[5][6]
- II. Moderato - Judith prepares to enter the enemy camp. Her anxious resolve is reflected in the music, which increases in intensity, culminating with strings and brass in a spirited jazz-inspired interplay. (Book of Judith 8.1-10.10, 3:25 minutes)[5][7]
- III. Tranquillo - A peaceful solo oboe passage followed by one for solo violin accompany Judith's prayers for guidance and her patient wait for a chance to confront Holofernes. (2:07 minutes)[8]
- IV. Presto - The presto movement heightens the action in Holofernes tent, where Judith seduces the drunken general. The scene opens with rumbling timpani and accelerates with pizzicato strings. The beheading, which takes place behind a curtain in the choreography,[9] is marked by frenzied repetitive brass chords that slowly fade away. (5:54 minutes)[5][10]
- V. Andante (Coda)- Judith's slow procession homeward carrying Holofernes' head. The music is measured and dignified rather than victorious.(Book of Judith 13:19, 3:04 minutes)[5][11]
