Due to the unusual nature of the opera, Robbins decided to make a ballet with the music first and figure out the stage directions.
Robbins also claimed that since he was focused on the music during the creative process, he was surprised to see the critics interpret it as "images of urban life".
[4] The first part, "Rubric", features dancers in bright color practice wears walking across the stage,[5] and three main couples performing different choreography.
The principal couple is the equivalent of the score while an all-female corps dances at the back of the stage in a line, representing the accompaniment.
[7][8][10] In light of the impact of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic on the performing arts, Paris Opera Ballet released a video recording of Glass Pieces as a part of the Tribute to Jerome Robbins program.