Chaconne

(1942)

Choreography

José Limón

Music

Johann Sebastian Bach

10 minutes

José Limón’s Chaconne is a masterclass in sculptural movement and musical sensitivity. Created in 1942, this solo distills the essence of Limón’s artistry—fluid yet commanding, deeply expressive yet structured with restraint. Set to Bach’s transcendent Chaconne, the piece transforms the music’s sweeping grandeur into a powerful exploration of strength, grace, and humanity.

José Limón (1908–1972) was a pioneering force in modern dance, celebrated for his deeply humanistic approach to movement. Born in Mexico and later moving to the U.S., Limón studied under modern dance legends Doris Humphrey and Charles Weidman before founding his own company in 1946. His works, including The Moor’s Pavane and Missa Brevis, emphasize gravity, breath, and storytelling through the body.

Chaconne (1942), set to Bach’s music, exemplifies Limón’s virtuosic yet restrained style, showcasing his belief that dance can deeply express the human spirit, a philosophy that shaped his enduring legacy.

Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750) was a German composer, organist, and violinist, whose profound mastery of counterpoint, harmony, and musical structure solidified his legacy as a cornerstone of classical music. He was a prolific composer, producing hundreds of works that showcased his technical brilliance and deep emotional expression. His influence on music history is immeasurable, shaping both Baroque music and generations of musicians across genres.

Bach’s Chaconne from Partita No. 2 in D minor is one of the most revered solo violin works ever composed. Written in the early 18th century, the piece is structured around a repeating harmonic progression, evolving into a breathtaking display of variation and depth. Often described as a monument of Western music, the Chaconne has inspired countless adaptations, including arrangements for piano, guitar, and full orchestra. Its grandeur and emotional intensity provide a rich foundation for Limón’s striking solo.

Choreography

José Limón

Music

Chaconne from Partita No. 2 in D minor for solo violin by J.S. Bach

Lighting Design (Original Production)

Steve Woods

Lighting Design (Current Production)

Mark Stanley

Pointe of Interest

The dance form Chaconne originated in Mexico during the Spanish occupation, and its cultural roots resonate deeply with José Limón, a Mexican immigrant. Limón’s family moved to Los Angeles in 1915 when he was just seven, and his heritage played a significant role in shaping his artistic vision, infusing his choreography with the rhythms and history of his Mexican roots.

...rich in feeling and form.

- The New York Times

Pointe of Interest

Limón Technique℠, based on "fall and recovery," emphasizes the body’s movement through gravity, allowing dancers to shift between grounded strength and soaring freedom. This approach creates a powerful emotional connection, using breath and energy to tell a dynamic, expressive story.

Spring Mix

Mar 28 - Apr 13, 2025

Program

Pointe of Interest

Bach’s Chaconne is believed to have been composed after the death of his wife in 1720. Its emotional depth reflects his grief, turning sorrow into a timeless, beautiful work.