Composer

:

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

Genre

:

Orchestral

Style

:

Orchestral

Compose Date

:

1867

Publication Date

:

1951

Average_duration

:

11:31

"Episode from the Legend of Sadko, Op. 5" is a symphonic poem composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov in 1867. The piece was premiered on March 3, 1867, in St. Petersburg, Russia, conducted by the composer himself. The piece is divided into three movements, each depicting a different scene from the legend of Sadko, a merchant and musician from Novgorod who becomes a hero after his encounter with the Sea King. The first movement, "The Song of India," begins with a solo for the oboe, which is then taken up by the strings. This melody represents the exotic and mysterious land of India, which Sadko visits in his travels. The music is characterized by its use of pentatonic scales and exotic harmonies, which create a sense of otherworldliness. The second movement, "The Sea King's Palace," is a slow and atmospheric piece that depicts Sadko's descent into the underwater palace of the Sea King. The music is characterized by its use of shimmering strings and delicate woodwind solos, which create a sense of mystery and wonder. The final movement, "The Song of the Sea," is a lively and energetic piece that depicts Sadko's triumphant return to Novgorod. The music is characterized by its use of folk melodies and driving rhythms, which create a sense of celebration and joy. Overall, "Episode from the Legend of Sadko, Op. 5" is a masterful example of Rimsky-Korsakov's skill as an orchestrator and his ability to create vivid musical depictions of stories and legends. The piece is notable for its use of exotic scales and harmonies, as well as its colorful orchestration and evocative melodies.

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