Scythian Suite

music by Prokofiev

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July 13, 2026

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The Scythian Suite is an orchestral work by Russian composer Sergey Prokofiev, completed in 1916. It was originally conceived as a ballet titled Ala and Lolli, based on ancient Slavic mythology, for impresario Serge Diaghilev. However, Diaghilev rejected it, leading Prokofiev to rework the music into the Scythian Suite. Its premiere in 1916 caused a scandal due to its unconventional and aggressive musical style, characterized by unusual harmonic material and a percussive approach to rhythm. This work is considered a culmination of Prokofiev's pre-revolutionary creative period, showcasing his innovative and often provocative musical language.1

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Sergey Prokofiev
Pre-Revolutionary period
…reworked the music into the Scythian Suite for orchestra. Its premiere, in 1916, caused a scandal but was the culmination of his career in Petrograd (St. Petersburg). The ballet The Tale of the Buffoon Who Outjested Seven Buffoons (1915; reworked as The Buffoon, 1915–20), also commissioned by Diaghilev, was based…
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…reworked the music into the Scythian Suite for orchestra. Its premiere, in 1916, caused a scandal but was the culmination of his career in Petrograd (St. Petersburg). The ballet The Tale of the Buffoon Who Outjested Seven Buffoons (1915; reworked as The Buffoon, 1915–20), also commissioned by Diaghilev, was based…
Read More