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                THE NUTCRACKER SUITE is a collection of the main themes from the Ballet 
           "THE NUTCRACKER." It was written in 1892, one year prior to Tchaikowsky's death. 
           Although today, the "Nutcracker" is associated with the Christmas Season and held 
           in very high regard the world over, in his lifetime, it was rather unsucessful.

               In the particular part of the ballet from which Trepak is excerpted, the main 
           character, Clara, has just been whisked away by a fantastic Nutcracker Prince to 
           the magical land of sweets. Upon arrival, an elaborate ceremony is held in Clara's
           honor. She is treated to dancing by all kinds of exotic sweets and good things to eat:
           chocolate, coffee, tea, trepak and marzipan(an almond candy) all delight Clara with 
           their amazing dances. It is in this piece that the excitement Clara feels over this 
           wonderful party is encaptured.

               In just the first few strains of the melody, the flutter of her heart can be heard and 
           continues the rest of the piece.
 

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