Igor Stravinsky became famous almost overnight thanks to one magical ballet — The Firebird. In this episode, I'll take you inside the glowing, mysterious world of this Russian fairy tale, filled with enchanted creatures, an evil sorcerer, brave heroes, and powerful music that tells the story without words.
Based on centuries-old Russian folk tales, The Firebird follows Prince Ivan, who captures a magical Firebird and receives a glowing feather in return for her freedom. That feather later helps him defeat Kashchei the Immortal, an evil sorcerer who has trapped princesses and turned travelers into stone. With the Firebird's help, Ivan breaks Kashchei's spell, frees the princesses, and brings peace back to the enchanted forest.
Stravinsky's music brings every moment of this story to life — from the shimmering Firebird theme to the pounding rhythms of Kashchei's Infernal Dance and the glowing, triumphant Finale.
The fairy-tale story behind The Firebird
Who the Firebird, Prince Ivan, and Kashchei are
How Stravinsky uses leitmotifs (musical themes for characters and ideas)
How this ballet made Stravinsky famous at just 27 years old
Why The Firebird is still one of the most loved orchestral works today
Kids will also learn how composers use music the same way movies do — giving characters their own musical "voices," just like Darth Vader, Jaws, or Hogwarts!
Suite from The Firebird (1919) – Toronto Symphony Orchestra
Infernal Dance of King Kashchei
Finale from The Firebird – Los Angeles Philharmonic, Gustavo Dudamel
Explore famous recordings and watch scenes from The Firebird ballet here:
👉Playlist for Episode 168
This is Episode 2 in our 3-part Igor Stravinsky series. In our final episode, we'll dive into his most shocking and controversial work: The Rite of Spring — the piece that caused a riot!
Until next time…
Keep listening and keep learning — because Busy Kids Love Music!
