“Carnival of the Animals” (Le Carnaval des Animaux) is one of Camille Saint-Saëns’s most famous and delightful compositions. It was composed in 1886 and is often celebrated for its humorous and imaginative depictions of various animals.
“Carnival of the Animals” is a suite of 14 movements, each representing a different animal or group of animals. The composition was intended for a private performance, and Saint-Saëns did not publish it during his lifetime, fearing that it might damage his reputation as a serious composer.
The skill level required to tackle “Carnival of the Animals” on the piano can be categorized as intermediate to advanced. This is due to the piece’s diverse range of technical demands, such as rapid scales, intricate fingerwork, and nuanced expression. A pianist attempting this suite should possess a solid command of technique, agility, and musicality.
