In the tranquil confines of the Morgan Library & Museum, a fascinating discovery took place in 2019. Associate Curator Robinson McClellan delved into Robert Owen Lehman’s collection of music manuscripts, revealing a treasure trove tied to the iconic Ballets Russes. Founded by Sergei Diaghilev in 1909 in Paris, the Ballets Russes are renowned for their sweeping influence on 20th-century performing arts.
The collection, enriched by scores by luminaries such as Stravinsky, Debussy and Ravel, offers a rare glimpse into the creative processes behind the Ballets Russes’ groundbreaking productions. These documents, heavily marked with notes and revisions, expose the dynamic evolution of the music that accompanied the dance.
Now, the Morgan celebrates this artistic synergy with the exhibition “Crafting the Ballets Russes,” on view through September 22. Visitors can explore a series of original manuscripts, along with choreographic notes, photographs, and art props related to the productions. This assemblage not only showcases the intense collaboration between composers, dancers, and visual artists, but also illustrates the role of the Ballets Russes in shaping modern artistic expression.
For further insights, visit the Morgan Library & Museum’s exhibit or online resources that detail the lives and works of figures such as Sergei Diaghilev, Auguste Rodin, and Pablo Picasso.
