Aleksandr Glazunov - The Kremlin, Op. 30 [1890]

This symphonic picture “The Kremlin“ was written in 1890 and is fully in the nationalist mood, as characterized by Glazunov’s mentor Rimsky-Korsakov. The picture is, in fact, thoroughly Russian in its thematic content, revealing the heart of Russia in the great monuments of the Kremlin, its palaces and cathedrals, in music that seems to reflect something of the music of The Five and something of what was to come with the Russian ballets of Rimsky-Korsakov’s pupil Stravinsky. The first of the three movements shows the grandeur of the Kremlin, against which is set a popular festival, before the meditative and religious mood of the second movement, with the tolling of the bell and the solemn traditional chant. The third movement brings a lightening of atmosphere, with music of alternating energy and lyricism, ending inexultant triumph, for the entry of the Prince. 00:00 I. Popular festival. Allegro. 08:15 II. In the cloister. Andante. 18:19 III. The entrance and the coronation of the Prince. Moderato. Performed by: Conductor: Konstantine Krimets Orchestra: Moscow Symphony Orchestra in 1995