CDXLV. GLAZUNOV, Alexander: Characteristic Suite

CDXLV. GLAZUNOV, Alexander (1865-1936)

Characteristic Suite (1884-87)
1. Introduction et danse rustique
2. Intermezzo scherzando
3. Carnaval
4. Pastorale
5. Danse orientale
6. Élégie
7. Cortège
Moscow Radio Symphony Orchestra
Algis Žiūraitis, cond.
(31:02)

It is interesting to experience the music of a very young Glazunov. Steeped in the music of his elders -- particularly his teacher, Rimsky-Korsakov -- and eventually becoming second only to Tchaikovsky as a master of Russian formal ballet, Glazunov is here still experimenting and, frankly, copying.

The suite may have started as a set of piano variations as early as 1880, and later orchestrated into its present form.

1. Introduction et danse rustique

Stately and elegant; then a dizzying, beautifully orchestrated "rustic" dance.

2. Intermezzo scherzando

As Spock might say: fascinating!

Does this remind you of something?

maybe 2nd movement of Beethoven's Ninth [see Post C]???

Yes, it's derivative, but delightful. The trio is in 5/8 ...

Later, Glazunov switches back and forth between both time sigs:

and ends it imaginatively:

3. Carnaval

Thrilling music.

4. Pastorale

The Russian equivalent?

5. Danse orientale

and look at this tambourine part, which sounds like a hissing snake:

6. Élégie

The dramatic denouement; a heartfelt, moving 12/8:

Cleverly rearranging the rhythm (2+2+2+3+3):

(attacca)
7. Cortège

Very Tchaikovskyian.