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- Offenbach, Jacques
- Binder, Carl
Duration: 2 minutes
Description: Jacques Offenbach (1819–1880) composed his operetta Orpheus in the Underworld (Orpheus aux Enfers) in 1858, with the famous Can-can (Infernal Galop) assembled later, drawing on the opera’s most memorable themes. A bold satire of classical mythology and Parisian society, the operetta caused a sensation at its Paris premiere at the Théâtre des Bouffes-Parisiens on October 21, 1858, scandalizing some critics with its irreverence while delighting audiences with its wit and tunefulness. The Can-can (Infernal Galop), which includes the sparkling Galop Infernal—later universally known as the Can-Can—has since taken on a life of its own as a popular concert piece, admired for its effervescent energy, brilliant orchestration, and sheer joie de vivre. Today, the Can-can (Infernal Galop) remains a favorite in both the operatic and symphonic repertoire, performed widely around the world as a quintessential example of Offenbach’s flair for satire and irresistible melody. Instrumentation: 1+1(Picc).2.2.2: 4.2.3.1: Timp.Perc(2): Str (9.8.7.6.5 in set). Reprint of the edition by Carl Binder.