Saint-Saëns' Danse Macabre (Op. 40) is a symphonic poem composed in 1874, inspired by a French poem depicting Death playing the violin at midnight while skeletons dance. The work is famous for its eerie violin solo opening and its vivid depiction of the macabre.

"Le Cygne" (The Swan) is the thirteenth movement of Saint-Saëns' whimsical suite "Le Carnaval des animaux" (1886), originally composed for cello and two pianos. It is one of the most beloved pieces in the chamber music repertoire, celebrated for its serene, flowing melody.