I Due Pulcinelli: how to rewrite a masterpiece
In 1925, Stravinsky published his Suite d'après des thèmes, fragments et morceaux de Giambattista Pergolesi, a violin and piano duet retelling of his runaway hit ‘Pulcinella’.
Researcher: Basil Alter
Yet, in 1932, he began rewriting the piece, editing it down into what we now know as the Suite Italienne, a staple of modern 20th century violin repertory. This turned out to be a pivotal decision – most violinists today are unaware that the original 1925 version exists, while Suite Italienne continues to be a popular choice in recital repertoire.
I am interested in exploring the ‘how’, but also the ‘why’ of this rewriting – a question to which I keep getting told there is no answer. Whether or not we will ever truly be able to answer it, I remain committed to exploring all the implications of having a second go at a piece: from a compositional outlook, a performer’s perspective, a violinist’s hands, and an audience’s view. Through discussion of this rarely played masterpiece, a story emerges of how small changes can make or break a legacy.