Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s iconic orchestral interlude, depicting a bumblebee’s frenetic flight, has been broadly transcribed for solo piano. These transcriptions seize the essence of the unique piece’s speedy chromatic scales and arpeggios, presenting a major technical problem and an exhilarating efficiency alternative for pianists. A pianist tackling this work will encounter a demanding flurry of notes requiring dexterity, velocity, and exact articulation. Analyzing accessible variations reveals various ranges of problem, typically tailored to go well with completely different talent ranges, from newbie to virtuoso.
The provision of this difficult and beloved work in a piano format permits pianists to expertise and interpret a masterpiece initially conceived for orchestra. It serves as a precious pedagogical software for growing technical expertise, significantly finger dexterity and velocity. Moreover, the piece’s enduring reputation ensures its continued presence within the repertoire of each aspiring and completed pianists, contributing to a wider appreciation of Rimsky-Korsakov’s compositional brilliance. Its adaptation for the piano additionally broadened entry to the work past orchestral settings, permitting for a extra intimate and private efficiency expertise.
This exploration delves into the nuances of varied piano preparations, contemplating their technical complexities and musical interpretations. Discussions relating to efficient apply methods and efficiency issues present precious insights for aspiring performers. Additional evaluation will study the piece’s historic context inside Rimsky-Korsakov’s opera, The Story of Tsar Saltan, and the influence of its adaptation on its enduring reputation.
1. Availability
Availability of sheet music for Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Flight of the Bumblebee” in a piano association considerably impacts its accessibility to pianists of various talent ranges. Widespread availability, each in bodily print and digital codecs, ensures aspiring musicians can readily purchase the music. This accessibility fosters broader engagement with the piece, permitting pianists worldwide to check and carry out it. The existence of quite a few editions, starting from simplified preparations for learners to extra complicated and devoted transcriptions for superior gamers, additional expands the work’s attain. Traditionally, restricted availability posed a major barrier to entry, however trendy printing and digital distribution have largely overcome this problem, democratizing entry to this iconic work. For instance, the proliferation of on-line sheet music libraries and digital marketplaces has simplified acquisition, particularly for these in geographically remoted areas or with restricted entry to conventional music shops.
Moreover, the supply of “Flight of the Bumblebee” sheet music in numerous codecs influences pedagogical practices. Lecturers can choose preparations applicable for particular person scholar talent ranges, facilitating efficient studying and talent improvement. The widespread availability of recordings, typically synchronized with the sheet music, aids in understanding the nuances of interpretation and efficiency apply. The flexibility to simply evaluate completely different editions additionally permits for knowledgeable selections based mostly on editorial accuracy, fingering strategies, and interpretative steering. This strong availability ecosystem cultivates a deeper understanding and appreciation of the work, fostering its continued presence within the piano repertoire.
In conclusion, the prepared availability of “Flight of the Bumblebee” sheet music in various codecs and preparations performs an important function in its enduring reputation. This widespread accessibility permits broader engagement with the work, impacting each pedagogical approaches and particular person studying experiences. Whereas challenges stay relating to copyright safety and making certain the standard of available editions, the general influence of widespread availability stays profoundly constructive, contributing to a richer and extra accessible musical panorama.
2. Preparations (simplified, superior)
The existence of quite a few preparations of Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Flight of the Bumblebee” for solo piano instantly impacts accessibility and pedagogical utility. These preparations cater to a large spectrum of talent ranges, from newbie to virtuoso. Simplified variations typically scale back the technical calls for by simplifying rhythms, lowering the variety of notes, and altering octave placements to accommodate smaller arms. This enables novice pianists to expertise the essence of the piece whereas growing foundational expertise. Conversely, superior preparations retain the unique’s complexity, incorporating speedy scales, arpeggios, and difficult hand crossings, offering a platform for seasoned performers to showcase virtuosity. This tiered method fosters engagement with the work throughout a wider viewers, making certain its continued relevance in various musical contexts.
The provision of various preparations contributes considerably to the pedagogical worth of “Flight of the Bumblebee.” Lecturers make the most of simplified variations as introductory workouts, step by step introducing college students to extra complicated variations as their expertise progress. This progressive method facilitates the event of essential technical expertise comparable to finger dexterity, velocity, and articulation. Analyzing numerous editions reveals particular pedagogical goals; some emphasize technical improvement, whereas others give attention to musical interpretation. For example, some editions embody fingering strategies tailor-made for smaller arms, whereas others present detailed efficiency notes relating to phrasing and dynamics. This various panorama of preparations empowers educators to pick supplies applicable for particular person scholar wants and studying types, optimizing the educational course of. Contemplate, as an illustration, a newbie utilizing a simplified model specializing in primary hand coordination and a live performance pianist using a virtuosic transcription emphasizing speedy scales and complicated passagework.
In abstract, the spectrum of accessible preparations for “Flight of the Bumblebee” considerably impacts accessibility and pedagogical utility. Simplified variations present accessible entry factors for learners, whereas superior transcriptions problem seasoned performers. The provision of varied editions with distinct pedagogical objectives empowers educators to tailor instruction to particular person wants. This adaptability contributes to the work’s enduring attraction and ensures its continued relevance for pianists throughout a variety of talents. The continued creation and adaptation of preparations demonstrates the work’s enduring attraction and adaptability, making certain its place within the piano repertoire for generations to return.
3. Accuracy (notes, rhythms)
Accuracy in each notes and rhythms types the bedrock of a profitable efficiency of Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Flight of the Bumblebee” on piano. The piece’s inherent complexity, characterised by speedy scales, arpeggios, and complicated rhythmic patterns, necessitates meticulous consideration to element. Inaccurate rendition of notes compromises the melodic and harmonic integrity of the work, obscuring its attribute chromaticism and virtuosic aptitude. Rhythmic inaccuracies disrupt the circulation and momentum, undermining the sense of frenetic vitality that defines the piece. A missed word or misplaced accent can detract considerably from the supposed musical impact. Contemplate, for instance, a misplaced word inside a speedy ascending scale; the error disrupts the sleek, steady circulation and compromises the musical influence. Equally, an incorrectly performed dotted rhythm can disrupt the rhythmic drive and ahead momentum.
The pursuit of accuracy requires cautious research of the chosen sheet music version. Completely different editions may supply various interpretations or fingerings, impacting word selections and rhythmic execution. Cross-referencing with recordings of respected performers can present precious insights into interpretative nuances and efficiency apply. Training with a metronome aids in growing rhythmic precision and sustaining a constant tempo, particularly essential within the speedy passages. Moreover, meticulous sectional apply permits for targeted consideration to technically demanding passages, reinforcing accuracy and constructing confidence. For example, isolating and repeating a very difficult arpeggio passage ensures correct word execution and rhythmic precision throughout the bigger musical context.
In conclusion, accuracy serves as a non-negotiable basis for any profitable efficiency of “Flight of the Bumblebee.” Meticulous consideration to each notes and rhythms ensures the preservation of the composer’s intent and permits the performer to convey the piece’s virtuosity and dynamism. Constant apply, knowledgeable by respected sources, empowers pianists to navigate the technical complexities and obtain a musically satisfying efficiency. Finally, the pursuit of accuracy facilitates a deeper engagement with the work, unlocking its expressive potential and contributing to a extra compelling musical expertise.
4. Interpretations (dynamics, tempo)
Interpretative selections relating to dynamics and tempo considerably form the character and influence of performances of Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Flight of the Bumblebee” on piano. Whereas the rating supplies a basis, particular person interpretations introduce expressive nuances, remodeling a technically demanding piece right into a compelling musical expertise. Understanding the interaction between dynamics, tempo, and the inherent musical construction permits performers to speak creative imaginative and prescient and interact audiences extra profoundly.
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Dynamic Variation
Dynamic variation injects vitality and drama into the efficiency. Alternating between loud and tender passages, crescendos, and diminuendos, transcends mere technical execution, imbuing the music with emotional depth. A sudden fortissimo chord can evoke the bumblebee’s aggressive buzz, whereas a fragile pianissimo passage may counsel a momentary pause in flight. Contemplate a performer emphasizing a crescendo throughout a quickly ascending scale, creating a way of accelerating depth and pleasure. Conversely, a delicate diminuendo throughout a descending passage may convey a way of gradual descent or tranquility.
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Tempo Selections
Tempo selections considerably influence the perceived vitality and character of the piece. A sooner tempo intensifies the frenetic vitality, emphasizing virtuosity and pleasure. A barely slower tempo, whereas nonetheless demanding technical proficiency, can enable for better readability and articulation of particular person notes and phrases. For instance, a performer choosing a brisk tempo underscores the bumblebee’s frantic flight, whereas a barely extra reasonable tempo may emphasize the intricacies of the melodic and rhythmic patterns. The chosen tempo instantly influences the listener’s notion of the bumblebee’s flight from a frantic sprint to a extra managed buzz.
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Phrasing and Articulation
Phrasing and articulation contribute considerably to the musical narrative. Legato phrasing, connecting notes easily, creates a way of steady movement, mimicking the bumblebee’s sustained flight. Staccato articulation, detaching notes sharply, introduces a way of rhythmic precision and percussive vitality, suggesting the speedy wing beats. A performer may select legato phrasing for the principle melodic traces, creating a way of flowing motion, whereas using staccato articulation for the speedy accompanying figures, suggesting the buzzing of wings. These selections form the listener’s notion of the bumblebee’s motion and character.
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Pedaling Strategies
Pedaling strategies play an important function in shaping the general sound and texture. Even handed use of the maintain pedal can create a way of resonance and fullness, enhancing the melodic traces and blurring the boundaries between particular person notes. Nevertheless, extreme pedaling may end up in a muddy and vague sound, obscuring the readability of the speedy passages. A talented performer makes use of the pedal strategically, creating moments of each readability and resonance, enhancing the general musical influence. For instance, utilizing the pedal sparingly throughout speedy scales maintains readability, whereas making use of it extra generously throughout sustained chords creates a way of heat and fullness.
Finally, the interaction between dynamics, tempo, phrasing, articulation, and pedaling strategies shapes the general interpretation of “Flight of the Bumblebee.” These selections enable performers to infuse the music with particular person expression, remodeling a technical showpiece right into a fascinating musical narrative. A nuanced and knowledgeable interpretation elevates the efficiency past mere technical execution, partaking the viewers and speaking the inherent drama and pleasure of Rimsky-Korsakov’s iconic work. By rigorously contemplating these components, performers can craft performances which might be each technically good and musically compelling.
5. Fingerings (effectivity, consolation)
Environment friendly and comfy fingerings represent an important factor for mastering the technical calls for of Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Flight of the Bumblebee” on piano. This piece, famend for its speedy scales, arpeggios, and complicated passagework, necessitates considerate fingering selections to facilitate fluency, accuracy, and velocity. Efficient fingerings reduce awkward hand positions and maximize effectivity, enabling pianists to navigate the technical challenges whereas sustaining musicality and management. Contemplate this side as analogous to a well-designed roadmap, guiding the pianist’s arms by way of the intricate panorama of the music.
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Minimizing Hand Place Adjustments
Environment friendly fingerings reduce pointless hand place modifications, contributing to a smoother and extra fluid execution. Frequent shifts in hand place disrupt the circulation and introduce potential inaccuracies, particularly throughout speedy passages. Selecting fingerings that enable the hand to stay comparatively secure promotes better management and accuracy. For example, in a speedy ascending scale passage, a well-chosen fingering may enable the hand to glide easily throughout the keyboard, minimizing disruptive jumps and maximizing velocity and precision.
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Optimizing for Velocity and Dexterity
Particular fingering patterns optimize velocity and dexterity, essential for executing the speedy passages that characterize “Flight of the Bumblebee.” Sure finger mixtures facilitate smoother transitions between notes, permitting for better velocity and accuracy. For instance, using the rules of legato fingering, the place one finger easily replaces one other on a key, promotes fluidity and velocity in scale passages. Conversely, utilizing applicable staccato fingerings, lifting every finger rapidly and cleanly off the keys, enhances readability and articulation in speedy indifferent passages.
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Adapting to Particular person Hand Anatomy
Comfy fingerings take into account particular person hand anatomy, accommodating variations in hand dimension and finger size. A fingering appropriate for one pianist may show awkward or uncomfortable for an additional. Experimentation and adaptation are essential for locating fingerings that really feel pure and comfy, selling rest and stopping pressure. A pianist with smaller arms may go for fingerings that reduce stretches, whereas a pianist with bigger arms may select fingerings that maximize attain and effectivity.
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Balancing Consolation and Effectivity
The perfect fingering typically represents a stability between consolation and effectivity. Whereas some fingerings may really feel extra comfy initially, they won’t essentially be essentially the most environment friendly for reaching the specified velocity and accuracy. Conversely, extremely environment friendly fingerings may require preliminary adjustment and apply to realize comfy execution. Discovering this stability is essential for long-term technical improvement and damage prevention. For example, a technically demanding passage may require a fingering that originally feels barely awkward however finally permits for better velocity and precision with apply.
In conclusion, considerate fingering selections are indispensable for mastering the technical intricacies of “Flight of the Bumblebee.” Environment friendly and comfy fingerings empower pianists to navigate the demanding passagework with fluency, accuracy, and management. By contemplating elements comparable to hand place modifications, velocity optimization, particular person hand anatomy, and the stability between consolation and effectivity, pianists unlock the total expressive potential of this virtuosic work. Cautious consideration to fingering particulars elevates the efficiency past mere technical execution, remodeling it right into a compelling musical expertise. Finally, the chosen fingerings contribute considerably to the general musicality and creative influence of the efficiency, making certain a extra nuanced and compelling interpretation of Rimsky-Korsakov’s iconic work.
6. Apply strategies (sections, repetition)
Efficient apply strategies, emphasizing sectional apply and repetition, are important for mastering the technical and musical challenges introduced by “Flight of the Bumblebee” piano sheet music. The piece’s demanding nature, characterised by speedy scales, arpeggios, and sophisticated rhythmic patterns, necessitates a structured and disciplined method. Merely taking part in by way of the piece repeatedly proves ineffective; strategic apply strategies are essential for reaching fluency, accuracy, and musicality.
Sectional apply entails isolating particular passages and dealing on them independently earlier than integrating them into the bigger context. This enables for targeted consideration on technically difficult segments, facilitating the event of muscle reminiscence and making certain accuracy. For instance, a pianist may isolate a very demanding scale passage, training it slowly and intentionally with exact fingering till reaching constant accuracy and velocity. Equally, isolating a fancy rhythmic sample and training it with various rhythmic subdivisions can improve rhythmic precision and management. This focused method addresses particular technical challenges earlier than making an attempt the whole piece, constructing confidence and stopping the reinforcement of errors.
Repetition performs an important function in solidifying technical expertise and growing musical expression. Repeating a passage a number of occasions, after reaching accuracy, reinforces muscle reminiscence and builds velocity. Various the tempo throughout repetition additional enhances technical management and permits for exploration of dynamic nuances. For example, training a passage at a slower tempo initially solidifies accuracy, whereas step by step growing the tempo builds velocity and dexterity. Repeating a passage with completely different dynamic shadings, comparable to crescendos and diminuendos, develops expressive management and musicality. Nevertheless, senseless repetition with out important analysis proves counterproductive. Every repetition ought to serve a particular function, whether or not refining technical accuracy, enhancing dynamic management, or exploring musical phrasing.
In abstract, efficient apply strategies using sectional apply and repetition are indispensable for mastering “Flight of the Bumblebee” on piano. Sectional apply permits for targeted consideration on difficult passages, whereas repetition solidifies approach and develops musicality. Nevertheless, efficient apply requires greater than mere repetition; it calls for important analysis and a purposeful method. A disciplined apply routine, knowledgeable by these rules, empowers pianists to navigate the technical complexities of “Flight of the Bumblebee,” finally resulting in a extra polished and musically satisfying efficiency.
7. Efficiency issues (memorization, stage presence)
Efficiency issues, significantly memorization and stage presence, considerably influence the supply and reception of Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Flight of the Bumblebee” on piano. Whereas technical mastery types the inspiration, these components elevate the efficiency from a technical train to a fascinating creative expertise. Memorization frees the performer from visible dependence on the rating, fostering a deeper reference to the music and enabling better expressive freedom. This enables for extra nuanced dynamic management, rhythmic flexibility, and a extra partaking bodily reference to the instrument. A pianist acting from reminiscence can preserve constant eye contact with the viewers, projecting confidence and enhancing communication. Contemplate a performer who, free of the rating, can sway with the music, mirroring the bumblebee’s flight with delicate physique actions, enhancing the visible influence and emotional reference to the viewers. Conversely, a performer continually referencing the rating may seem indifferent and fewer engaged, probably hindering the viewers’s immersion within the musical expertise.
Stage presence encompasses a performer’s demeanor, posture, and skill to command consideration. A assured and fascinating stage presence enhances the viewers’s notion of the efficiency, amplifying the influence of the music. Sustaining a poised posture, managed actions, and applicable facial expressions tasks confidence and professionalism. Contemplate a performer who walks onstage with confidence, acknowledges the viewers with a delicate nod, and maintains a targeted but relaxed posture all through the efficiency. This tasks an aura of professionalism and management, enhancing the viewers’s anticipation and receptiveness to the music. Conversely, a performer exhibiting nervous fidgeting, awkward posture, or an absence of eye contact may inadvertently detract from the musical influence, creating a way of unease or detachment. In “Flight of the Bumblebee,” a chunk typically carried out as a virtuosic showpiece, a commanding stage presence additional enhances the drama and pleasure.
In abstract, whereas technical proficiency stays paramount, efficiency issues comparable to memorization and stage presence considerably affect the general influence of “Flight of the Bumblebee” on piano. Memorization fosters better expressive freedom and reference to the viewers, whereas a compelling stage presence enhances the perceived professionalism and creative influence. These components, mixed with technical mastery, remodel a technical show right into a fascinating musical expertise. Neglecting these points can diminish the influence, even with flawless technical execution. Cultivating these efficiency expertise, alongside technical improvement, permits pianists to completely notice the expressive potential of “Flight of the Bumblebee,” delivering a efficiency that’s each technically good and artistically compelling.
Regularly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries relating to piano preparations of Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Flight of the Bumblebee,” offering readability on numerous points, from choosing applicable sheet music to efficient apply methods.
Query 1: How does one choose an applicable association of “Flight of the Bumblebee” for his or her talent degree?
Deciding on an applicable association requires cautious consideration of 1’s technical proficiency. Learners ought to go for simplified variations with diminished technical calls for, whereas superior pianists can discover extra complicated and virtuosic transcriptions. Consulting with a piano instructor can present precious steering in choosing an association aligned with particular person talent degree and studying objectives. Analyzing the sheet music’s preview pages typically reveals the extent of complexity.
Query 2: What are the simplest apply methods for mastering the technical challenges?
Efficient apply necessitates a structured method. Sectional apply, isolating and repeating difficult passages, builds accuracy and velocity. Metronome use develops rhythmic precision, whereas various tempo throughout apply enhances management. Constant, targeted apply yields superior outcomes in comparison with sporadic, unfocused makes an attempt.
Query 3: Are there particular fingering suggestions for optimizing velocity and accuracy?
Whereas particular fingering suggestions range relying on the association and particular person hand anatomy, normal rules apply. Environment friendly fingerings reduce hand place modifications and optimize transitions between notes. Experimentation and session with skilled pianists or lecturers might help decide the simplest fingerings for particular person wants.
Query 4: How essential is memorization for a profitable efficiency?
Memorization, whereas not strictly necessary, considerably enhances efficiency high quality. It frees the performer from visible dependence on the rating, selling better expressive freedom and a stronger reference to the viewers. This enables for extra nuanced musical interpretation and a extra partaking stage presence.
Query 5: What are key issues for stage presence when performing this piece?
Assured stage presence enhances the influence of the efficiency. Sustaining a poised posture, managed actions, and applicable facial expressions tasks professionalism and engages the viewers. A commanding stage presence, coupled with technical mastery, elevates the efficiency to a fascinating creative expertise.
Query 6: How can one distinguish between a good version of the sheet music and a much less dependable one?
Respected editions usually originate from established music publishers and sometimes embody editorial markings comparable to fingering strategies, efficiency notes, and historic context. Evaluating completely different editions and consulting evaluations can help in figuring out dependable sources. Accuracy in notation and adherence to the composer’s intent are essential indicators of high quality.
Cautious consideration of those regularly requested questions supplies a strong basis for approaching the research and efficiency of “Flight of the Bumblebee” on piano. A radical understanding of those points contributes to a extra knowledgeable and rewarding musical journey.
Additional exploration of particular interpretations and efficiency practices can deepen understanding and improve musical improvement.
Ideas for Mastering “Flight of the Bumblebee” on Piano
The following tips supply steering for pianists tackling the technical and musical challenges of Rimsky-Korsakov’s iconic work. These insights present a framework for efficient apply and efficiency preparation.
Tip 1: Begin Slowly and Regularly Improve Tempo: Resist the temptation to start training on the remaining efficiency tempo. Beginning slowly permits for correct word studying, exact fingering, and rhythmic accuracy. Gradual tempo will increase construct velocity and management with out sacrificing accuracy.
Tip 2: Isolate and Grasp Difficult Passages: Divide the piece into smaller, manageable sections. Isolate technically demanding passages, comparable to speedy scales and arpeggios, and apply them independently. This targeted method promotes accuracy and fluency earlier than integrating the passages into the bigger context.
Tip 3: Make the most of a Metronome for Rhythmic Precision: A metronome serves as a useful software for growing rhythmic accuracy and sustaining a gentle tempo. Apply with the metronome at various tempos, step by step growing velocity as proficiency improves.
Tip 4: Experiment with Completely different Fingerings: Discover numerous fingering choices to find essentially the most environment friendly and comfy method for particular person hand anatomy. Seek the advice of respected editions or search steering from skilled pianists for fingering strategies.
Tip 5: Hearken to Recordings of Respected Performers: Listening to recordings supplies precious insights into interpretative nuances, tempo selections, and dynamic variations. Observe how completed pianists method the technical and musical challenges of the piece.
Tip 6: Prioritize Accuracy Over Velocity: Accuracy types the inspiration of a profitable efficiency. Concentrate on taking part in every word accurately and sustaining rhythmic precision earlier than prioritizing velocity. Velocity with out accuracy compromises musicality and undermines the general influence.
Tip 7: Pay Consideration to Dynamics and Articulation: Dynamics and articulation add depth and expressiveness. Discover variations in quantity, crescendos, diminuendos, and completely different articulation types (legato, staccato) to reinforce musicality and create a extra partaking efficiency.
Tip 8: Develop a Sturdy Stage Presence: Domesticate a assured stage presence by way of managed actions, poised posture, and applicable facial expressions. Projecting confidence enhances viewers engagement and amplifies the influence of the efficiency.
By persistently implementing the following tips, pianists can successfully navigate the technical and musical complexities of “Flight of the Bumblebee,” reaching a efficiency that’s each technically spectacular and musically compelling.
The next conclusion summarizes key takeaways and affords remaining ideas on approaching this demanding but rewarding work.
Conclusion
Exploration of “flight of the bumblebee piano sheet music” reveals multifaceted issues. Technical mastery, encompassing correct notes, rhythms, and environment friendly fingerings, types the inspiration. Interpretative selections relating to dynamics, tempo, and articulation form creative expression. Efficient apply methods, emphasizing sectional work and repetition, facilitate technical improvement. Efficiency issues, together with memorization and stage presence, improve viewers engagement. Availability of various preparations caters to various talent ranges, impacting accessibility and pedagogical functions.
The enduring reputation of this virtuosic work underscores its significance throughout the piano repertoire. Continued exploration of interpretations and efficiency practices ensures ongoing evolution and appreciation. Cautious consideration of those components permits performers to transcend mere technical execution, remodeling this demanding piece right into a fascinating musical expertise. The pursuit of technical mastery, mixed with creative expression, unlocks the total potential of this iconic work, enriching the musical panorama for each performers and audiences.
