Three-Cornered Hat, Suite No.2 (NCPE. Bradburd, Nieweg)

Manuel de Falla's ballet "The Three-Cornered Hat" (El sombrero de tres picos) was created in 1919 as a commission from Sergei Diaghilev for his Ballets Russes in Paris. The work is based on Pedro Antonio de Alarcón's novella of the same name and tells the story of a corrupt judge who vainly courts a miller's wife. With its captivating Spanish folklore, characteristic rhythms, and brilliant orchestration, the ballet became one of the most significant works in Spanish musical history.

Suite No. 2 brings together the most popular dance movements from the ballet: the "Dance of the Neighbors," the "Miller's Dance," and the fiery "Final Dance." Here Falla combines authentic Andalusian folk music with impressionistic harmonies and virtuosic orchestral technique. The concluding Jota dance is particularly striking for its rhythmic intensity and brilliant instrumentation.

This edition in the New Critical Performing Edition (NCPE) by Bradburd and Nieweg offers a scholarly text foundation that ensures both historical authenticity and practical performability, allowing Falla's masterful orchestration to shine in all its splendor.