Composer

:

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Suite

Compose Date

:

1891 - 1892

Publication Date

:

1892

Average_duration

:

11:59

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov's "Sadko: Musical Picture (iii, 1892 revision), Op. 5" is a symphonic poem that was composed in 1867 and revised in 1892. The piece is based on the Russian legend of Sadko, a musician who plays a magical instrument that can control the sea and its creatures. The piece premiered in 1869 in St. Petersburg, Russia, and was well-received by audiences and critics alike. The 1892 revision of the piece is the most commonly performed version today. The piece is divided into three movements. The first movement, "The Sea and Sinbad's Ship," begins with a slow, mysterious introduction that gradually builds in intensity as the ship sets sail. The music then becomes more lively and energetic, depicting the ship's journey through the sea. The movement ends with a triumphant theme as the ship reaches its destination. The second movement, "The Song of India," is a slow, lyrical piece that features a solo violin playing a haunting melody. The music is meant to evoke the exoticism and mystery of India. The final movement, "The Legend of the Invisible City of Kitezh and the Maiden Fevroniya," is the longest and most complex of the three. It begins with a slow, mystical introduction that gradually builds in intensity as the story of the city of Kitezh is told. The music becomes more frenzied as the city is attacked by invaders, and then becomes more peaceful as the city disappears into the lake. The movement ends with a beautiful, ethereal theme that represents the maiden Fevroniya. Overall, "Sadko: Musical Picture (iii, 1892 revision), Op. 5" is a stunning example of Rimsky-Korsakov's skill as a composer. The piece is full of lush, colorful orchestration and vivid storytelling, and is a testament to the power of music to evoke emotion and imagination.

More....