The Carnival of the Insects

Photo by Nadia Zheng

The Carnival of the Insects is an orchestral suite of 16 short movements, each dedicated to a different insect and featuring a specific instrument of the orchestra. Inspired by Camille Saint-Saëns’ Carnival of the Animals, this work invites listeners of all ages to explore the vibrant and diverse world of insects through the unique timbres and colors of orchestral instruments.

In this suite, the light flutter of a butterfly, the march of an army ant, and the relentless buzz of a fly are brought to life through music, as each instrument takes its turn in the spotlight. The clarinet’s swirling chirps, the double bass’s grounded hum, and the trombone’s spectacular leaps guide us through a sonic journey that is both whimsical and captivating.

Though designed with a young audience in mind, The Carnival of the Insects offers layers of complexity and nuance that will engage and delight listeners of all ages. Each movement is a miniature portrait, capturing the essence of these tiny creatures that play such vital roles in our world. Whether you’re an entomologist, a music lover, or simply curious, this suite promises to enchant and inspire with its blend of imagination, education, and artistry.

Prepare to be transported into the intricate, miniature world of insects, where music and nature intertwine in a celebration of life’s smallest wonders.

  1. Dragonfly (Flute)
    Capable of vertical takeoff, flying backward, or hovering in place, it explores the skies with the curiosity of an adventurer, darting swiftly in every direction.
  2. Pond Skater (Violin)
    Gliding and leaping with elegance under the spotlights, it never misses a chance to impress with its prowess and agility.
  3. Butterfly (Harp)
    Light, colorful, and graceful, it travels the world, peacefully flying over vast distances, carried by the wind.
  4. Fly (Clarinet)
    It buzzes relentlessly around us, driving us to madness. But could a swatter finally put an end to its antics?
  5. Ant (Trumpet and Snare Drum)
    Ready to do anything to protect their anthill, warrior ants march with determination toward the enemy, prepared for battle.
  6. Cicada (Cello)
    On a warm summer night, it sings its lyrical song of seduction, filling the air with its romantic melody.
  7. Fireflies (Glockenspiel)
    A swarm of tiny, twinkling lights dances in the darkness of the night, illuminating the scene with a gentle, mysterious magic.
  8. Cockroach (Tuba)
    Nothing can withstand its insatiable appetite. Rotting waste, nail clippings, hair, glue – it devours everything with its powerful stomach. (Composition based on the theme of the traditional Mexican song “La Cucaracha”)
  9. Silverfish (Bassoon)
    Hidden in a damp, dark corner, it fears only one thing: the sudden flash of light disturbing its peaceful solitude.
  10. Mosquito (Viola)
    Beware! The mosquito is on the attack, determined to bite with fervor and appetite, never backing down.
  11. Walkingstick (Xylophone)
    Master of disguise, it blends seamlessly with its surroundings, resembling a branch as it moves incognito across a towering tree.
  12. Grasshopper (Trombone)
    Like an Olympic athlete, it shatters records with its powerful leaps, covering impressive distances in a single bound.
  13. Praying Mantis (Doublebass)
    A fearsome hunter, it spreads terror among insects, devouring them mercilessly while they’re still alive.
  14. Hercules Beetle (Timpany, Bass Drum, Toms, and Tam Tam)
    With its gigantic horn, this colossal insect engages in battle with unmatched strength and energy.
  15. Ladybug (Oboe)
    Comfortably perched on a leaf, the ladybug spends its day patiently munching on aphids, savoring them one by one.
  16. Bee (Horn)
    Like a noble empress, the majestic queen bee reigns solemnly over her sumptuous hive.

Instrumentation: 2222 / 4231 / hrp / timp+2 / strings

Duration: 20 minutes

Suggested program:

  • Saint-Saëns: The Carnival of the Animals
  • Mossourgsky: The Flight of the Bumblebee
  • Roussel: The Spider’s Feast
  • Ralph Vaghn Williams: The Wasps
  • Dvořák: Carnival Overture
  • Berlioz: Roman Carnival Overture

Commissioned by the Orchestre symphonique de Montréal.

Dedicated to my daughter, Mina—my little love bug.

Premiere: February 16th, 2025, by Orchestre symphonique de Montréal and Rafael Payare at the Maison symphonique de Montréal.

Performances of The Carnival of the Insects

2026, Mar. 26 | Orchestre symphonique de Montréal | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
2026, Mar. 25 | Orchestre symphonique de Montréal | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
2026, Mar. 24 | Orchestre symphonique de Montréal | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
2026, Mar. 23 | Orchestre symphonique de Montréal | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
2026, Mar. 22 | Orchestre symphonique de Montréal | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada

2025, Apr. 2 |  Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, Julien Proulx | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC Canada
2025, Apr. 1 |  Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, Julien Proulx | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC Canada
2025, Mar. 31 |  Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, Julien Proulx | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC Canada
2025, Feb. 16 | Orchestre symphonique de Montréal, Rafael Payare | Maison symphonique de Montréal, Montreal, QC Canada (premiere)

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