Firebird adds

The Infernal Dance of King Kaschei is a virulent study in malevolence characterised not only by the explosive dynamics and the ferocious rhythmic syncopations but also by a melodic line distorted by the non-diatonic intervals Stravinsky uses to distinguish the magical from the human element in the ballet. Paradoxically, the same intervals are used with a disarmingly gentle effect in the Berceuse, where the Firebird charms the evil King Kaschei and his followers to sleep. Prince Ivan’s final triumph over Kaschei must, naturally, be a celebration of diatonic melody. Russian folk song gave Stravinsky just what he wanted here - a broadly expressive melody called By the Gate, which thrives under the weight of the harmonies he hangs on it and flourishes in whatever rhythm he applies to it.