1800–1802 marked the end of Ludwig van Beethoven’s early creative period; at the same time, these years were the introduction to a later, vibrant and fruitful period. A personal crisis triggered a particular creativity; a new, typically “Beethovenian”, mode of expression emerged. Works composed during this period are permeated with a vigorous energy and dramatic motifs. This expression is also prevalent in the music for the ballet Die Geschöpfe des Prometheus, Op. 43 (The Creatures of Prometheus). The composer wrote his only ballet in 1801 to a libretto by the Italian dancer and choreographer Salvatore Viganò. The mythological plot of the ballet fascinated Beethoven with its heroic aspect – the image of Prometheus, who sacrificed himself for the good of the people, was very close to his heart. The two-act ballet consists of an overture, an introduction, 15 dance numbers and a finale. Die Geschöpfe des Prometheus premiered on 28 March 1801 at the Burgtheater in Vienna, where it was performed 28 times to great acclaim.

The ballet’s expressive and virtuoso overture is performed by the Lithuanian Chamber Orchestra under the baton of Maestro Andreas Spering (Germany).