Saint-Saëns incorporates humor and wit into the composition, making it accessible to a wide audience. The use of musical motifs, playful rhythms, and unexpected musical gestures contributes to the overall charm of the piece. Some of the movements include “Lion,” “Hens and Roosters,” “Tortoises,” “Elephant,” “Kangaroos,” and “The Swan.” Each movement captures the essence of the respective animal through clever musical imagery.
While the composition is typically performed by a chamber ensemble, it has found its way into the repertoire of various solo instruments, including the violin. Playing “Carnival of the Animals” on the violin adds a unique dimension to the piece, allowing the violinist to interpret the animalistic motifs with their own artistic flair. The skill level required to tackle this composition varies, making it accessible to a wide range of violinists.