The Ten Commandments

(DeMille, 1923). Music composed and compiled by Hugo Riesenfeld.

The first version of this epic by DeMille. Scenes in the life of Moses and his conflict with the Pharaoh in two color technicolor alternate with a story in modern times in which each of the ten commandments is broken. The scenes involving the Israelites escaping from Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea became famous.

Performing forces
Minimum
11 players (violin I and II, cello, bass, flute/piccolo, clarinet I, trumpet, trombone, percussion/tympani, piano, synthesizer)
Performing forces
Maximum
43 players (strings: 7,7,6,5,4; flute/piccolo, oboe, 2 clarinets, bassoon, 2 Fr. horns, 2 trumpets, trombone, 2 percussion, tympani, piano)
RehearsalsTwo 2 ½ hour rehearsals
One 2 ½ hour tech rehearsal
One 2 hour 45 minute dress rehearsal
Performance time2 hours 26 minutes plus 15 minute intermission
Film speed24 fps in US; 23.4 in Europe
Film sourceParamount Studios
RightsParamount Studios