Event

Tiler Peck's Choreographic Entrance with 'Concerto for Two Pianos'

Published February 2, 2024

In an evening where music and dance intertwined with captivating synergy, the New York City Ballet witnessed the choreographic debut of Tiler Peck, a principal dancer renowned for her exquisite performances. The premiere, 'Concerto for Two Pianos', presented at the David H. Koch Theater, marked a distinctive moment for both Peck and the company.

Music as the Muse for Movement

Peck chose Francis Poulenc's 'Concerto for Two Pianos' for her first foray into choreography, a selection that resonates with her own luminous dance style. Her approach to the music was to let it breathe, and she successfully allowed her dancers to become vessels through which the score's brightness flowed.

The Strength in Grace

The ballet, divided into three acts, was an embodiment of resilience. At one striking moment, dancers India Bradley and Emma Von Enck captured audiences as they mirrored each other in a suspended pose, creating an indelible image on stage, illustrating the enduring power of a moment's poise amidst the chaos of motion. The ballet's dynamism exuded in every step, exemplifying the fusion of inner strength and musicality.

With a nod to her father's memory, Peck crafted the choreography to expand upon the intricate moods of Poulenc's music. Through her vision, the dance echoed the concerto's shifts from lightheartedness to drama, always in harmony with the sonic landscape.

The Harmonious Blend of Classicism and Expression

The choreography of 'Concerto for Two Pianos' remained rooted in classic ballet traditions while also exuding a refreshing clarity. Its movements, like musical notes taking physical form, enveloped the theater in a dance that was both identifiable and expressive. Peck has created a space where dancers can express their individuality, yet appear enlarged, extending their presence beyond personal boundaries.

ballet, choreography, debut