Perséphone

Igor Stravinsky's Persephone is a Melodrama in three parts. Arranged for female narrator, tenor solo, mixed choir, children's choir and orchestra. Persephone, of her own free will, descends to the Underworld in compassion for the hapless Shades, there to become Pluto's wife.

Springtime accompanies her ascent back to terrestrial life and a second marriage – to Triptolemus, the first farmer. According to the cycle of the seasons, thus established, she will in due course return to the Underworld.