Decided not to call this Borodin's Bordello . . . . . .
Borodin's Boardroom
The Russian/Georgian composer Alexander Porfiryevich Borodin (1833-1887) was a professional chemist (noted for his work on aldehydes) and a member of the group of composers called The Five (the mighty handful).
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/70/Borodin.jpg)
Borodin met Mily Balakirev in 1862 at which time he began his First Symphony (performed in 1869 under Balakirev) and Second Symphony in B Minor (which premiered in 1877 under Eduard Nápravník). In 1869, Borodin focused on his opera Prince Igor, which, although remaining unfinished by Borodin (completed posthumously by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov and Alexander Glazunov), is regarded by many to be his most significant composition and one of the most important historical Russian operas. It contains the much beloved Polovetsian Dances, which are frequently performed as stand-alone concert pieces. According to Wiki: "Other well-known compositions by Borodin include the popular symphonic poem In the Steppes of Central Asia and the second of two string quartets (in D Major), in which the composer's strong lyricism is represented in the popular "Nocturne" movement. In 1882, Borodin began composing a third symphony, but left it unfinished at his death; two movements of it were later completed and orchestrated by Glazunov. Among Borodin's other works there are several art songs, piano pieces (notably the Petite Suite), and other chamber music (notably a cello sonata based on a theme from Bach's Sonata No.1 in G minor, BWV 1001)."
Classical.net recommedations include: (http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000BX5LE.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_V47081354_SS500_.jpg)
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000002ROX.01-A2QSB8LKCIV44C._SCLZZZZZZZ_V45881511_AA132_.jpg) (http://ec2.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000BX5LE.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_V47081354_SS500_.jpg) (http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0002VYDZU.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_V43088934_SS400_.jpg)
Quote from: D Minor on April 12, 2007, 08:33:18 AM
Decided not to call this Borodin's Bordello . . . . . .
I'm sure I speak for more than myself, in thanking you most heartily. ;D
But back to Borodin. A few years ago I finally heard his
Symphony No. 2, by Gergiev and the Kirov, and thought to myself, "Here is yet again, another really fine piece -- that never sees the light of day in the concert hall." I feel a rant coming on, so I'll stop, but I thought it was an excellent piece that many listeners would enjoy. A shame you never see it.
PS, coming up at Carnegie Hall on December 4, and you can bet I'll be there:
Kirov Orchestra
Valery Gergiev,
Music Director and Conductor Kirov Opera Chorus
Soloists from the Mariinsky Theater
Stravinsky:
Les Noces Borodin: Act II of
Prince Igor --Bruce
I am very fond of this Borodin performance:
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000004216.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_AA240_.jpg)
Also repackaged thus:
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000261KO.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_AA240_.jpg)
The "Steppes of Central Asia" are particularly lovely.
Quote from: O Mensch on April 12, 2007, 08:45:21 AM
The "Steppes of Central Asia" are particularly lovely.
Agree. What an evocative tone poem that is, shows no influence from anybody.
D Minor - thanks for starting this thread; don't own a lot at the moment; do have the String Quartets w/ the Borodins pictured earlier + the disc below of Symphony No. 2 and other orchestral pieces that he has earned famed - of course, a number of his 'melodies' are just gorgeous, and have been used in popular music. But, I look forward to some 'newer' recommendations & hopefully some comments on his 'other' music outside the usual suggestions! :)
(http://cover6.cduniverse.com/MuzeAudioArt/Large/34/516934.jpg) BTW - my front cover is different, so this one must be a newer re-issue!
Quote from: PerfectWagnerite on April 12, 2007, 08:58:45 AM
Agree. What an evocative tone poem that is, shows no influence from anybody.
I don't know if I'd say that. Apart from the obvious folk melodies, I hear a kinship with Rimsky-Korsakov and Glazunov.
My personal favorite Borodin piece is the unfinished 3rd symphony, followed by the 2nd. But the piece I actually listen to the most is Prince Igor, granted it was finished by someone else. Still, it is basically his work, and I love it more than the famous and almost overplayed (compared to his other pieces) dances and overture.
Quote from: O Mensch on April 12, 2007, 09:01:40 AM
I don't know if I'd say that. Apart from the obvious folk melodies, I hear a kinship with Rimsky-Korsakov and Glazunov.
Not too familiar with Glazanov but certainly Steppes is not as colorful as what you would expect from Rimsky-Korsakov. It is hypnotic in a simple and yet powerful sort of way. Kind of remind me of Aaron Copland actually: folksy, wide-open chords, and unpretentious.
Quote from: PerfectWagnerite on April 12, 2007, 09:07:16 AM
Not too familiar with Glazanov but certainly Steppes is not as colorful as what you would expect from Rimsky-Korsakov. It is hypnotic in a simple and yet powerful sort of way. Kind of remind me of Aaron Copland actually: folksy, wide-open chords, and unpretentious.
Exactly: streamlined Rimsky-Korsakov, without the excess baggage.
Yeah, Rimsky = Russian Easter Overture, oh how busy that piece is !
Quote from: bhodges on April 12, 2007, 08:42:32 AM
A few years ago I finally heard his Symphony No. 2, by Gergiev and the Kirov, and thought to myself, "Here is yet again, another really fine piece -- that never sees the light of day in the concert hall." I feel a rant coming on, so I'll stop, but I thought it was an excellent piece that many listeners would enjoy. A shame you never see it.
I love the first movement of Borodin's Symphony no. 2. You can snag a free (albeit a tad rough) recording here (click on the Borodin link). :D (http://www.peabody.jhu.edu/743)
Never, ever, ever listen to Polovtsian Dances without the chorus!
ACCEPT NO SUBSTITUTES!
Borodin's string quartets are my favorite in the entire genre that weren't written by Haydn or Bartok.
D Minor gave us some pictures a few posts ago. There are two recordings by the agreeably-named Borodin Quartet: one that is now on Chandos (or was last I looked) in a wonderful remastering, and a later one, which D Minor pictured, with two new violinists replacing the original members. Many people prefer the early one; I love them both. If anything, the later recording emphasizes the aching sense of loss that pervades the underrated First Quartet, and I'm glad I don't have to have just one or the other.
I haven't heard the Lindsays. Please avoid the Haydn Quartet of Budapest on Naxos, which to me was an emotionless run-through, all the notes and none of the pathos.
for the 2th.look for the Hollywood SQ.Beautiful.
I could swear one of the themes in the Polovtsian Dances made its way into a Tony Bennet song.
Quote from: Catison on April 12, 2007, 04:00:44 PM
I could swear one of the themes in the Polovtsian Dances made its way into a Tony Bennet song.
Not sure about Tony (I never really had enough class to appreciate Tony), but one of 'em became a hit for the Ventures. Or was it the Tornadoes? One of those Duane Eddy twangy guitar knockoffs from my deformative years.
Quote from: Catison on April 12, 2007, 04:00:44 PM
I could swear one of the themes in the Polovtsian Dances made its way into a Tony Bennet song.
Brett -the popular song derived from Borodin's melody from the above is 'Stranger in Paradise' - check HERE (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stranger_In_Paradise_%28song%29) for a few singer associations, including Tony Bennett. 'And This is My Beloved' another popular song based on the melody from the slow movement of Borodin's String Quartet - look HERE (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/And_This_Is_My_Beloved); and there are more from the musical 'Kismet' - this could certainly be a 'new thread' - pop music of the 20th century based on classical works! ;) ;D Dave
The "Stranger in Paradise" and "The Polovtsian Dances" come from Borodin's opera, "Prince Igor."
There is a very nice 1998 DVD of this opera from the Kirov conducted by Valery Gergiev.
The Kirov Ballet performs using Mikhail Fokine's original choreography.
I have always really liked the chorus from the Kirov; their sound is so "pure". (You should also hear that chorus in Mussorgsky's Khovanshchina.) Sets for Prince Igor are luxurious in the DVD and singers are Putilin, Gorchakova, Akimov, Aleksashkin, Borodina.
Is there another Borodin thread this can be appended to?
Just became reaquainted with the SQs on EMI, and the first is most certainly the first major Russian SQ, Tchaikovsky notwithstanding. It's big and meaty and original and took Borodin about 10 years to complete, and the care shows. I have nothing really to add about No.2, except that its fame is more than justified (as opposed to the first, the second was written very quickly). I haven't heard Tchaikovsky for a long time (1-3+mvmt in Bb), but I would like to compare.
However, I just wanted to give these SQs their props. No.1 is really a masterpiece, mature, and comparable, IMHO, to Beethoven's late minor key SQs (probably the best SQ between 1826-1888?).
I'll just add that I enjoy the SQ# 1 equally (if not more) than the more popular SQ# 2. May be the best 1 & 2 string quartets out there (if you take everyone's SQ # 1 and 2).
Whenever I listen to one of the small catalogue of masterpieces by Borodin, it makes me wish he'd ditched chemistry early and just concentrated on music. Then we'd have more than just 2.5 symphonies, 2 quartets, one (completed by someone else) opera, etc. He could have been one of the really great 19th-c. composers (better than Tchaikovsky, IMHO) if he hadn't spent so much time with the test tubes.
Quote from: ChamberNut on April 21, 2009, 12:07:54 PM
I'll just add that I enjoy the SQ# 1 equally (if not more) than the more popular SQ# 2. May be the best 1 & 2 string quartets out there (if you take everyone's SQ # 1 and 2).
Agree. And after him, I vote for Smetana's. His second (and unknown) SQ is a marvel.
Just to revive this thread if only temporarily. I've been listening to Borodin's symphonies today and really getting a great deal of enjoyment from. Especially listening to the 2'nd symphony/movement 3 which is absolutely gorgeous. Count me in as another person who would love this work performed much more often.
Quote from: Velimir on April 22, 2009, 12:20:19 AM
Whenever I listen to one of the small catalogue of masterpieces by Borodin, it makes me wish he'd ditched chemistry early and just concentrated on music.
it wasn't just the aldehydes that kept him from composition, you know, it was his highly disorganised domestic life: his ailing and demanding pianist wife, the innumerable friends, relatives and students who made themselves at home in his flat, distracting him with conversation, eating meals at odd hours and even sleeping in the unfortunate man's bed, when it wasn't occupied by some of the innumerable cats that also infested the place. He was also extremely diffident about his own music, and could rarely be persuaded to perform it even for friends, let alone finish anything and present it to the public. It's a wonder that he finished anything.
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ncehz%2Bf3L._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
VERY HAPPY with this recording of Borodin's symphonies. Started off with no.2 and was blown away!
No.2 is one of my favorite symphonic works. When I was a young college student I was able to attend a live performance and had one of the best concert experiences of my life. I love Borodin. I love that he had a day job and didn't finish his music. I can identify with that kind of artist.
Quote from: Reverend Bong on November 08, 2012, 04:09:16 AM
it wasn't just the aldehydes that kept him from composition, you know, it was his highly disorganised domestic life: his ailing and demanding pianist wife, the innumerable friends, relatives and students who made themselves at home in his flat, distracting him with conversation, eating meals at odd hours and even sleeping in the unfortunate man's bed, when it wasn't occupied by some of the innumerable cats that also infested the place. He was also extremely diffident about his own music, and could rarely be persuaded to perform it even for friends, let alone finish anything and present it to the public. It's a wonder that he finished anything.
Reminds me of Charles Bukowski's poem,
'The Life of Borodin'
the next time you listen to Borodin
remember he was just a chemist
who wrote music to relax;
his house was jammed with people:
students, artists, drunkards, bums,
and he never knew how to say: no.
the next time you listen to Borodin
remember his wife used his compositions
to line the cat boxes with
or to cover jars of sour milk;
she had asthma and insomnia
and fed him soft-boiled eggs
and when he wanted to cover his head
to shut out the sounds of the house
she only allowed him to use the sheet;
besides there was usually somebody
in his bed
(they slept separately when they slept
at all)
and since all the chairs
were usually taken
he often slept on the stairway
wrapped in an old shawl;
she told him when to cut his nails,
not to sing or whistle
or put too much lemon in his tea
or press it with a spoon;
Symphony #2, in B Minor
Prince Igor
On the Steppes of Central Asia
he could sleep only by putting a piece
of dark cloth over his eyes
in 1887 he attended a dance
at the Medical Academy
dressed in a merrymaking national costume;
at last he seemed exceptionally gay
and when he fell to the floor,
they thought he was clowning.
the next time you listen to Borodin,
remember...
Quote from: Leo K on December 30, 2012, 09:08:16 AM
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51ncehz%2Bf3L._SL500_AA300_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41HZfX8HwNL._SL500_AA300_.jpg)
VERY HAPPY with this recording of Borodin's symphonies. Started off with no.2 and was blown away!...................
Hi
Leo - love that Brilliant offering; also have Schwarz & his Seattle band inserted above - our own
Brian dubbed this a 'Bargain of the Month' in his MusicWeb Review (http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2011/Sept11/Borodin_8572786.htm), which prompted my purchase - have not done any back-to-back comparisons. Dave :)
P.S. Glad to see another Bix fan! :D
ah! Excellant, another Bix fan! 8)
Thanks Dave for that recommendation and link to Brian's review. Will look at that now.
In other reading today I came across this short note, written by George Kauffman, writer of an article on Aleksandr Borodin, published in Leonardo 21, No. 4, 429-436, 1988).
QuoteAlthough the Borodins had no
children, Aleksandr adopted several
orphans (all girls)-Elizaveta (Lisa)
Gavrilovna Balaneva, Elena A.
Guseva, and Gania Litvineko-who
lived with them. The first married
Aleksandr Pavlovich Dianin, Borodin's
student and successor at the
institute, and became the mother of
Sergei Aleksandrovich Dianin, Borodin's
biographer (N. A. Figurovskii
and Yu. I. Solov'ev, Borodin: A Chemist's
Biographyt, ranslated by Charlene
Steinberg and George B. Kauffman,
Springer-Verlag: Berlin, Heidelberg,
New York, 1988, pp. 106, 118).
During the summer of 1868, 22-year-old
Anna Nikolaevna Kalinina, the sister
of the composer Nikolai Nikolaevich
Lodyzhenskii, became infatuated with
the 34-year-old Borodin, which
aroused Ekaterina's jealousy. Borodin
told his wife of the affair in a letter
dated 25 October 1868: "My feelings
toward her do not alter the way I feel
toward you, and I am giving only that
which I cannot give to you; it is nothing
more than that 'feeling of mine
towards children'."
Anna's influence led Borodin to
compose the songs, "The Sea
Princess", "My Songs Are Filled with
Poison", and "The False Note" (ibid.,
p. 60).
from a note by
GEORGE B. KAUFMAN
Chemistry Department
California State University
Prince Igor.
It's like a movie which makes you hold your chair, or a person beside you, stronger and stronger and showing gentleness afterwards, like repenting for something you’ve done intentionally. But, it was just a possession by this beautiful and heavenly melody. Oh, this opera just has me wanting to listen to it again, and again, and again. I’m now taken… thinking how Borodin and I were similar. When I first heard Prince Igor, I got goosebumps all over my body which radiated excitement, passion and pleasure which I have never felt before, listening to another classical composition. Melody is just overwhelming with emotions, rich and pure. You could almost feel like you are the main character of the story.
I love the choir writing, constantly being louder and calmer from time to time, ready to impress with its destruction way of emotional release. He also discovered a method for the identification of urea in animal urine. He suffered poor health, and had several minor heart attacks and survived cholera in early stages of his life. He died suddenly during a ball at the Academy, in which he had worked. He is buried in Tikhvin Cemetery at the Alexander Nevsky Monastery, in Saint Petersburg. As a pharmacy student, love for chemistry and also love for music, made me and wisdom... I sometimes naively compare Borodin and myself, knowing that we both loved classical music and chemistry, since that was his life’s call. He started Medico-Surgical Academy in 1850, pursued a career as a chemist. Even though he’s been noticed as a composer of opera Prince Igor, his chemistry career was also very successful: he discovered Hunsdiecker reaction (known by its name to the West, but in Soviet Union it was presented as Borodin reaction), he was co-credited with the discovery of Aldol reaction
What to say, whenever I hear it again, I go speechless. It's a soul melting, outstanding classical piece... Piece which he has never finished, caught by the death earlier than he was supposed to. Thanks to Nikolai-Rimsky Korsakov and Alexander Glazunov, this classical masterpiece has been brought to its end, ready to astonish the audience, the world, and of course me.
Quote from: Leo K. on January 18, 2013, 12:07:16 PM
Prince Igor.
It's like a movie which makes you hold your chair, or a person beside you, stronger and stronger and showing gentleness afterwards, like repenting for something you've done intentionally. But, it was just a possession by this beautiful and heavenly melody. Oh, this opera just has me wanting to listen to it again, and again, and again. I'm now taken... thinking how Borodin and I were similar. When I first heard Prince Igor, I got goosebumps all over my body which radiated excitement, passion and pleasure which I have never felt before, listening to another classical composition. Melody is just overwhelming with emotions, rich and pure. You could almost feel like you are the main character of the story.
I love the choir writing, constantly being louder and calmer from time to time, ready to impress with its destruction way of emotional release. He also discovered a method for the identification of urea in animal urine. He suffered poor health, and had several minor heart attacks and survived cholera in early stages of his life. He died suddenly during a ball at the Academy, in which he had worked. He is buried in Tikhvin Cemetery at the Alexander Nevsky Monastery, in Saint Petersburg. As a pharmacy student, love for chemistry and also love for music, made me and wisdom... I sometimes naively compare Borodin and myself, knowing that we both loved classical music and chemistry, since that was his life's call. He started Medico-Surgical Academy in 1850, pursued a career as a chemist. Even though he's been noticed as a composer of opera Prince Igor, his chemistry career was also very successful: he discovered Hunsdiecker reaction (known by its name to the West, but in Soviet Union it was presented as Borodin reaction), he was co-credited with the discovery of Aldol reaction
What to say, whenever I hear it again, I go speechless. It's a soul melting, outstanding classical piece... Piece which he has never finished, caught by the death earlier than he was supposed to. Thanks to Nikolai-Rimsky Korsakov and Alexander Glazunov, this classical masterpiece has been brought to its end, ready to astonish the audience, the world, and of course me.
Chemistry and classical music, what more could a chap want, eh?
Can't say that I'm too familiar with Borodin, though, except for SQ no. 2, the Polovtsian Dances & March from Prince Igor. Might as well try his 2nd symphony from YT now, Martinon & LSO.
Quote from: North Star on January 18, 2013, 12:25:38 PM
Chemistry and classical music, what more could a chap want, eh?
Can't say that I'm too familiar with Borodin, though, except for SQ no. 2, the Polovtsian Dances & March from Prince Igor. Might as well try his 2nd symphony from YT now, Martinon & LSO.
I think his 2nd symphony is my favorite of his orchestral works.
Quote from: Leo K. on January 18, 2013, 02:24:06 PM
I think his 2nd symphony is my favorite of his orchestral works.
I liked what I heard from the first movement, but I'll have a listen to the whole piece later.
Quote from: North Star on January 18, 2013, 02:33:00 PM
I liked what I heard from the first movement, but I'll have a listen to the whole piece later.
I would like to know what your thoughts are when you do 8)
Love Borodin. My first exposure to it was the Polovtsian Dances on a Pops Cavier LP with the Boston Pops and Arthur Fielder. And to come full circle, I just acquired the CD this past week of that very same disc.
Borodin was a great composer. Symphony No. 2 is just fantastic and I love the In the Steppes of Central Asia.
Well, I was listening to some Borodin today (i.e. Symphonies, Piano Music, & String Quartets) - own just one SQ recording - the Borodin SQ (first image below, left) which dates from 1980 (originally on Melodiya) and was performed w/ Kopelman/Abramenkov (violin), Shebalin (viola), & Berlinsky (cello) - this has been in my collection for years and have none others, SO would like a different one!
Now there is another 're-mastered' Borodin SQ recording on Chandos (middle pic) - performers are the same except Dubinsky is one of the violinists - he was the founder of the SQ (another name then) in 1945; but these four performers were the Borodin String Quartet from 1953 to 1974; in reviewing the liner notes from this Chandos release HERE (http://www.chandos.net/details06.asp?CNumber=CHAN%209965), the exact original recording date is not given (assume some time in the 1960s?). But, bottom line, two different recording sessions , probably 15 or so years apart and w/ the original violinist replaced.
Not really sure that I need to replace my current CD w/ the other, but the recording w/ the Lindsays is more recent and has received some excellent reviewss - also, inexpensive on the Amazon MP (have not checked BRO, yet) - SO, any comments and suggestions of one who wants 'another' performance of the Borodin SQs? Thanks - Dave :)
(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/0f/f7/4076810ae7a0ab89b7039110.L._SY300_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51GHUrS8GNL._SY300_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LEajDMmyL.jpg)
Quote from: SonicMan46 on February 12, 2013, 02:22:48 PM
Well, I was listening to some Borodin today (i.e. Symphonies, Piano Music, & String Quartets) - own just one SQ recording - the Borodin SQ (first image below, left) which dates from 1980 (originally on Melodiya) and was performed w/ Kopelman/Abramenkov (violin), Shebalin (viola), & Berlinsky (cello) - this has been in my collection for years and have none others, SO would like a different one!
Now there is another 're-mastered' Borodin SQ recording on Chandos (middle pic) - performers are the same except Dubinsky is one of the violinists - he was the founder of the SQ (another name then) in 1945; but these four performers were the Borodin String Quartet from 1953 to 1974; in reviewing the liner notes from this Chandos release HERE (http://www.chandos.net/details06.asp?CNumber=CHAN%209965), the exact original recording date is not given (assume some time in the 1960s?). But, bottom line, two different recording sessions , probably 15 or so years apart and w/ the original violinist replaced.
Not really sure that I need to replace my current CD w/ the other, but the recording w/ the Lindsays is more recent and has received some excellent reviewss - also, inexpensive on the Amazon MP (have not checked BRO, yet) - SO, any comments and suggestions of one who wants 'another' performance of the Borodin SQs? Thanks - Dave :)
(http://g-ecx.images-amazon.com/images/G/01/ciu/0f/f7/4076810ae7a0ab89b7039110.L._SY300_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51GHUrS8GNL._SY300_.jpg) (http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51LEajDMmyL.jpg)
Sorry Dave I missed your post!
Those Borodin sets are all ones I don't have yet, it seems the Lindsays is a real good set, will have to check that out on the Amazon MP store.
I've been collecting a few more Symphony no.2's:
(http://i43.tower.com/images/mm110804302/tchaikovsky-romeo-juliet-in-bm-borodin-symphony-no2-kurt-sanderling-cd-cover-art.jpg)
Kurt Sanderling
(http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/61wAsEfcxyL._SL500_AA280_.jpg)
Konstantin Ivanov
Both of these sound very promising.
Quote from: Leo K. on February 16, 2013, 06:12:52 AM
Sorry Dave I missed your post!
Those Borodin sets are all ones I don't have yet, it seems the Lindsays is a real good set, will have to check that out on the Amazon MP store.
Hi
Leo - I went ahead and ordered the
Lindsays - excellent reviews & a good price on the Amazon MP - Dave :)
Quote from: SonicMan46 on February 16, 2013, 06:17:57 AM
Hi Leo - I went ahead and ordered the Lindsays - excellent reviews & a good price on the Amazon MP - Dave :)
I look forward to your thoughts, the price is very right (I love Amazon MP!) 8)
Quote from: SonicMan46 on February 16, 2013, 06:17:57 AM
Hi Leo - I went ahead and ordered the Lindsays - excellent reviews & a good price on the Amazon MP - Dave :)
Sorry I missed your post! The Borodins are the only one I have, but I enjoy them very much indeed. Hope you enjoy them too!
Quote from: mc ukrneal on February 16, 2013, 07:00:02 AM
Sorry I missed your post! The Borodins are the only one I have, but I enjoy them very much indeed. Hope you enjoy them too!
Hey
Neal - I've had that
Borodin's recording (the 2nd one mentioned in the post) for over 20 yrs and have listened and enjoyed the performance many times; just wanted a different & newer one - the
Lindsays seem to fit the shoe for me - believe it is 'in the mail' at the moment! Dave :)
Quote from: SonicMan46 on February 16, 2013, 07:26:01 AM
Hey Neal - I've had that Borodin's recording (the 2nd one mentioned in the post) for over 20 yrs and have listened and enjoyed the performance many times; just wanted a different & newer one - the Lindsays seem to fit the shoe for me - believe it is 'in the mail' at the moment! Dave :)
Oops! I meant to say the Lindsay's are the one I had! I guess it's all Borodin in the end! :)
Hi Leo & Neal - the disc below just arrived and on for a first listen. The playing by the Linsays is just beautiful and the sound is excellent (recorded in 2002; the group 'retired' in 2005) - a remarkable set of instruments used (Stradivari & Amati); for the youthful & short (9 mins) Sextet, the group is joined by Louise Williams (Amati viola, 1616) & Raphael Wallfisch (Strad cello, 1717) - just starting the 3rd movement of the 2nd SQ (probably one of my favorite melodies which of course was re-used in Kismet); a Fanfare review is attached for interest - still like my Borodin CD but this is a worthy alternative - :) Dave
(http://giradman.smugmug.com/Other/Classical-Music/i-Ff4NGmF/1/O/Borodin_Lindsays.jpg)
Quote from: MishaK on April 12, 2007, 08:45:21 AM
I am very fond of this Borodin performance:
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B000004216.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_AA240_.jpg)
Also repackaged thus:
(http://ec1.images-amazon.com/images/P/B0000261KO.01._SCLZZZZZZZ_AA240_.jpg)
The "Steppes of Central Asia" are particularly lovely.
Maybe I misunderstood MishaK's post, but I think these two discs are not identical. The
ESSENTIAL BORODIN (Decca) collection, for example, seems to have the famous Martinon (LSO?) recording of Symph. 2. Also the "Steppes" included in ESSENTIAL is by Ansermet. I bring this up because I wondered if this ESSENTIAL collection is worth getting, compared to the competing collections? I believe Brian/Leo about the Rozhdestvensky/Brilliant, which I am certain to get; but I've heard great things about this Martinon #2....though maybe one of those sources was the Hurwitzer. Okay, </catty>.
Here's the ESSENTIAL contents, pardon the lazy Arkiv reposting. Also curious if the included Solti POLOVOTSIAN DANCES includes the requisite choral activity....
Quote1. Prince Igor: Overture by Alexander Borodin
Conductor: Sir Georg Solti
Period: Romantic
Written: 1869-1887; Russia
Date of Recording: 1966
Length: 10 Minutes 55 Secs.
2. Prince Igor: Galitzky's aria by Alexander Borodin
Performer: Nicolai Ghiaurov ()
Conductor: Edward Downes
Period: Romantic
Date of Recording: 1965
Length: 3 Minutes 57 Secs.
3. Prince Igor: How goes it, Prince? "Konchak's Aria" by Alexander Borodin
Performer: Nicolai Ghiaurov ()
Conductor: Edward Downes
Period: Romantic
Written: 1869-1887; Russia
Date of Recording: 1965
Length: 7 Minutes 12 Secs.
4. Prince Igor: Polovtsian Dances by Alexander Borodin
Conductor: Sir Georg Solti
Period: Romantic
Written: Russia
Date of Recording: 1966
Length: 13 Minutes 49 Secs.
5. For the shores of thy far native land by Alexander Borodin
Performer: Zlatina Ghiaurov (Piano), Nicolai Ghiaurov ()
Period: Romantic
Written: 1881; Russia
Date of Recording: 1971
Length: 4 Minutes 32 Secs.
6. Symphony no 1 in E flat major by Alexander Borodin
Conductor: Vladimir Ashkenazy
Period: Romantic
Written: 1862-1867; Russia
Date of Recording: 1992
Length: 35 Minutes 21 Secs.
7. Symphony no 2 in B minor by Alexander Borodin
Conductor: Jean Martinon
Period: Romantic
Written: 1869-1876; Russia
Date of Recording: 1960
Length: 24 Minutes 38 Secs.
8. Quartet for Strings no 2 in D major by Alexander Borodin
Orchestra/Ensemble: Borodin String Quartet
Period: Romantic
Written: 1881; Russia
Date of Recording: 1961
Length: 27 Minutes 9 Secs.
9. In the steppes of central Asia by Alexander Borodin
Conductor: Ernest Ansermet
Period: Romantic
Written: 1880; Russia
Date of Recording: 1961
Length: 6 Minutes 49 Secs.
10. Symphony no 3 in A minor by Alexander Borodin
Conductor: Ernest Ansermet
Period: Romantic
Written: 1882; Russia
Date of Recording: 1954
Length: 16 Minutes 3 Secs.
Also curious if there's comments on the very recent Brilliant EDITION, which does not, alas, contain those Rzhdestvensky recordings, it seems:
[asin]B008GAXV84[/asin]
Quote from: Octave on February 22, 2013, 01:28:15 AM
Maybe I misunderstood MishaK's post, but I think these two discs are not identical. The ESSENTIAL BORODIN (Decca) collection, for example, seems to have the famous Martinon (LSO?) recording of Symph. 2. Also the "Steppes" included in ESSENTIAL is by Ansermet. I bring this up because I wondered if this ESSENTIAL collection is worth getting, compared to the competing collections? I believe Brian/Leo about the Rozhdestvensky/Brilliant, which I am certain to get; but I've heard great things about this Martinon #2....though maybe one of those sources was the Hurwitzer. Okay, </catty>.
Here's the ESSENTIAL contents, pardon the lazy Arkiv reposting. Also curious if the included Solti POLOVOTSIAN DANCES includes the requisite choral activity....
The Dances do include choral parts. It's a very stirring version (then again, most of them are). The Martinon is one of the classics for this piece, so whether Hurwitz liked it or not, it has long been a classic recording. For a while, there weren't all that many other recordings, and that my explain how that happened. I like it myself - it has a lot of spirit. Of course, there may be newer recordings in better sound, but I am not familiar with any of them, being content with this.
Quote from: Octave on February 22, 2013, 01:32:29 AM
Also curious if there's comments on the very recent Brilliant EDITION, which does not, alas, contain those Rzhdestvensky recordings, it seems:
[asin]B008GAXV84[/asin]
As regards this, I have the Prince Igor on this big set. I got it before the Gergiev version came out. But having heard that, I think the Gergiev is better sung and played. I am not familiar with the rest of the performers, so cannot really help there.
Quote from: Octave on February 22, 2013, 01:32:29 AM
Also curious if there's comments on the very recent Brilliant EDITION, which does not, alas, contain those Rzhdestvensky recordings, it seems:
[asin]B008GAXV84[/asin]
I wasn't aware of that set, I love the painting on the cover. It looks like a good set. I like Ermler's Prince Igor, so I'd probably enjoy his accounts of the symphonies on this disk.
Borodin: Symphony No. 1 [Rozhdestvensky]
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51IJLkt1z3L.jpg)
This is a really very powerful presentation of this work; possibly the most powerful that I have heard. Despite the powerful presence it is also quite a very lyrical and expansive one. This version hits the essential spot from the opening bar with its vitality and essential drive throughout. It is a really very fine performance. This is terrific music and music making. The strings drive the scoring but I give a very big nod to the woodwind writing. The second movement, Scherzo, is equally powerful in its presentation. Once again, there is a powerful presence here. The Andante is a rather lush and intense affair. The string writing in the third movement, Andante, is very fine indeed. The tone and mood of the movement is very fine and engaging. Woodwind writing is very worthy of note here. The final movement is both energetic and vital in its presentation. Both the music and the music making have a great presence. Every aspect of the wonderful scoring is very well presented here. Once again, due regard must be paid to the wonderful woodwind scoring. This is a particularly vital, very powerful, engaging and engrossing presentation of this work. The conclusion is very powerful!
Quote from: aligreto on September 26, 2021, 04:37:13 AM
Borodin: Symphony No. 1 [Rozhdestvensky]
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51IJLkt1z3L.jpg)
This is a really very powerful presentation of this work; possibly the most powerful that I have heard. Despite the powerful presence it is also quite a very lyrical and expansive one. This version hits the essential spot from the opening bar with its vitality and essential drive throughout. It is a really very fine performance. This is terrific music and music making. The strings drive the scoring but I give a very big nod to the woodwind writing. The second movement, Scherzo, is equally powerful in its presentation. Once again, there is a powerful presence here. The Andante is a rather lush and intense affair. The string writing in the third movement, Andante, is very fine indeed. The tone and mood of the movement is very fine and engaging. Woodwind writing is very worthy of note here. The final movement is both energetic and vital in its presentation. Both the music and the music making have a great presence. Every aspect of the wonderful scoring is very well presented here. Once again, due regard must be paid to the wonderful woodwind scoring. This is a particularly vital, very powerful, engaging and engrossing presentation of this work. The conclusion is very powerful!
Glad to see someone else enjoying this underrated work. In its energetic thrust and melodic memorability it easily stands with the finest Russian symphonies of the time IMO. I don't know that recording, but I can fully recommend the one with Tjeknavorian and the National Philharmonic on RCA.
Quote from: kyjo on September 29, 2021, 05:15:03 AM
Glad to see someone else enjoying this underrated work. In its energetic thrust and melodic memorability it easily stands with the finest Russian symphonies of the time IMO. I don't know that recording, but I can fully recommend the one with Tjeknavorian and the National Philharmonic on RCA.
Yes, a very fine work and thank you for the recommendation.
Borodin: Symphony No. 2 [Rozhdestvensky]
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51IJLkt1z3L.jpg)
Drama and tension fill the opening bars of the first movement to the brim; what a great sound! We then open up into a wonderfully expansive passage which is evocative of wide open spaces [steppes] for me. You can then literally hear the horses cantering over the landscape. OK, a bit idealised but that is what I hear. This is gloriously rich orchestration. The movement concludes as powerfully as it began. The Scherzo is a suitably lively and energetic affair. It retains the sense of expansiveness experienced in the opening movement with a lighter tone. Nice writing for the woodwind section. The slow movement is a thing of beauty. It opens with a haunting tune on the horn, accompanied by harp. This poignant tune is then taken up by the woodwinds. The scoring is filled out with wonderful strings and more brass. The harmonies are also just enough on the edgy side to make the musical language very interesting and engaging. This is very fine orchestral writing. Once again we are swept up in a swirl of energy and excitement in the wonderful dance-like tunes of the final movement. The music is well driven with moments where we can pause for breath. The music sparkles.
Apparently the lesser known chamber works of the Cello Sonata, the String Quintet and the Piano Quintet weren't mentioned.
Definitely worth exploring, such as in the old Marco Polo disc. I haven't heard the Brilliant Classics release.
Of course, there's a bunch of songs too, but haven't really focused on them yet.
Borodin: Symphony No. 3 [Rozhdestvensky]
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51IJLkt1z3L.jpg)
What a beguiling and enchanting opening to a symphonic work and it is so sensitively done here. Both the mood and tone both gradually develop wonderfully as the movement progresses and Rozhdestvensky both captures and retains the atmosphere remarkably well. The quality of the delivery is atmospheric, beguiling and completely captivating; it is as light as gossamer in places.
The second movement is a good contrast in terms of tempo and tone. It is more upbeat and animated, though not overly driven here. The orchestration is also more dense. Like the opening movement, the woodwind scoring is also a very fine feature here. The movement, and the work, builds satisfactorily towards a definitive resolution.
Quote from: MusicTurner on October 02, 2021, 08:56:57 AM
Apparently the lesser known chamber works of the Cello Sonata, the String Quintet and the Piano Quintet weren't mentioned.
Definitely worth exploring, such as in the old Marco Polo disc. I haven't heard the Brilliant Classics release.
Of course, there's a bunch of songs too, but haven't really focused on them yet.
Was just listening to the Cello Sonata the other night - a very interesting work based on the fugue from Bach's G minor sonata for solo violin! Although this concept is hardly something you'd expect from Borodin, his trademark Slavic lyricism is present in the work as well.
I have just finished this wonderful set under the baton of Rozhdestvensky:
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51IJLkt1z3L.jpg)
Petite Suite
The writing and scoring in the first movement is marvellous. There is a great atmosphere and emotion on show. The pacing is very keen and appropriate. The tone and mood of the second movement is lighter and more pastoral with some fine writing for the range of wind instruments. The third and fourth movements deliver up another contrast of both tone and atmosphere with two very fine and charming Mazurkas. The fifth movement is titled Reverie and, once again, the writing and scoring is marvellous. I really like the somewhat poignant sixth movement, Serenade; it has something of a wistful tone to it. The final movement opens as a Scherzo but it is a real mix making for an interesting and engaging movement. The harmonies and counterpoints are wonderful throughout all of this music weaving a luxurious tapestry of sound.
Romance for Baritone and Orchestra
This is a wonderful work and regrettably all too short for me. I really like the glorious orchestration and the emotion in the writing for the baritone.
"At the Homes of Other Folk" for Mezzo-soprano and Orchestra
Another wonderful work and also regrettably all too short for me. I really like the beguiling and enchanting orchestration and the tone in the singing of the mezzo.
Polovtsian Dances
These are fine versions, are delivered with style and with an appropriate sense of atmosphere and occasion. They were a most enjoyable and engaging listen.
Quote from: aligreto on September 26, 2021, 04:37:13 AM
Borodin: Symphony No. 1 [Rozhdestvensky]
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51IJLkt1z3L.jpg)
This is a really very powerful presentation of this work; possibly the most powerful that I have heard. Despite the powerful presence it is also quite a very lyrical and expansive one. This version hits the essential spot from the opening bar with its vitality and essential drive throughout. It is a really very fine performance. This is terrific music and music making. The strings drive the scoring but I give a very big nod to the woodwind writing. The second movement, Scherzo, is equally powerful in its presentation. Once again, there is a powerful presence here. The Andante is a rather lush and intense affair. The string writing in the third movement, Andante, is very fine indeed. The tone and mood of the movement is very fine and engaging. Woodwind writing is very worthy of note here. The final movement is both energetic and vital in its presentation. Both the music and the music making have a great presence. Every aspect of the wonderful scoring is very well presented here. Once again, due regard must be paid to the wonderful woodwind scoring. This is a particularly vital, very powerful, engaging and engrossing presentation of this work. The conclusion is very powerful!
I have not heard the 1st Symphony but the thought struck me after reading your positive review that the 1st and 2nd Symphonies are a mirror image of the two string quartets. The 2nd is one of the most well known of all quartets and the 1st rarely warrants a mention and yet it is every bit as good.
Quote from: Irons on October 18, 2021, 07:41:12 AM
I have not heard the 1st Symphony but the thought struck me after reading your positive review that the 1st and 2nd Symphonies are a mirror image of the two string quartets. The 2nd is one of the most well known of all quartets and the 1st rarely warrants a mention and yet it is every bit as good.
An interesting parallel. I will revisit the String Quartets with that observation in mind.
(https://i.postimg.cc/R0VG6K2x/RCA-Borodin-Complete-Orchestral-Tjeknavorian-National-Philharmonic.jpg) 0:)
Quote from: Scion7 on October 29, 2021, 09:04:17 AM
(https://i.postimg.cc/R0VG6K2x/RCA-Borodin-Complete-Orchestral-Tjeknavorian-National-Philharmonic.jpg) 0:)
This set has never appeared complete on CD. The Symphonies/Polovstian Dances/Petite Suite/Steppes have but not the Mlada rarity......
My updated 'small' Borodin collection w/ duplication in the String Quartets, probably my favorite along w/ the Polovtsian Dances - could add some more of his chamber works but looking on Amazon not seeing a nice single-disc non-SQ recording - comments or recommendations. Dave :)
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81lCCo5j0LL._SL1050_.jpg) (https://i.discogs.com/6qzFhJ3I8Wh3SijD4OYDQRcD806QF0E05mpRhx7kbS4/rs:fit/g:sm/q:90/h:491/w:500/czM6Ly9kaXNjb2dz/LWRhdGFiYXNlLWlt/YWdlcy9SLTE0NDM3/NjQtMTM1MjY1MzQ1/OS02MTE1LmpwZWc.jpeg) (https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/DhUAAOSw-CpYA64q/s-l500.jpg) (http://) (https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/610aXNslMzL.jpg) (https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71tKrS8iI-L._SL1210_.jpg)
Hello, Dave! I believe I have a non-SQ chamber work on a Prazak Quartet CD from the Praga label. It might be a quintet or sextet or something like that. As you can tell from this post so far, my memory of it is not strong enough to indicate that this is a mandatory purchase ;D (Okay, I looked it up. It's Quartet 2 + Cello Sonata + Piano Quintet. The Cello Sonata performance is also available separately, coupled to Prokofiev's cello sonata and Stravinsky's Suite Italienne from the same Czech performers.)
Is your Polovtsian Dances the choral, or no-singing version? I don't think I could do without the version with added chorus. My reference is Tjeknoravian on RCA, which replicates Schmidt's program exactly but with two additional Prince Igor excerpts. To avoid such duplication, there's also a Naxos/Kuchar disc with an hour of Prince Igor highlights and arias, including one called "I don't like boredom." Of course, it may not be worth adding to your collection for a variant version of an 11-minute work you already have, unless you love it dearly or want the rest of the opera arias.
Other classic Polovtsian Dances with chorus which you might have elsewhere, like in a big box set, include Dorati/Mercury, Ashkenazy, and Solti.
Quote from: Brian on March 10, 2022, 08:36:02 AM
Hello, Dave! I believe I have a non-SQ chamber work on a Prazak Quartet CD from the Praga label. It might be a quintet or sextet or something like that. As you can tell from this post so far, my memory of it is not strong enough to indicate that this is a mandatory purchase ;D (Okay, I looked it up. It's Quartet 2 + Cello Sonata + Piano Quintet. The Cello Sonata performance is also available separately, coupled to Prokofiev's cello sonata and Stravinsky's Suite Italienne from the same Czech performers.)
Is your Polovtsian Dances the choral, or no-singing version? I don't think I could do without the version with added chorus. My reference is Tjeknoravian on RCA, which replicates Schmidt's program exactly but with two additional Prince Igor excerpts. To avoid such duplication, there's also a Naxos/Kuchar disc with an hour of Prince Igor highlights and arias, including one called "I don't like boredom." Of course, it may not be worth adding to your collection for a variant version of an 11-minute work you already have, unless you love it dearly or want the rest of the opera arias.
Other classic Polovtsian Dances with chorus which you might have elsewhere, like in a big box set, include Dorati/Mercury, Ashkenazy, and Solti.
Hi
Brian - thanks for your prompt response - the Ole Schmidt recording of the Dances is orchestral - I saw your comment on a previous page of this thread about the choral version - the Tjeknavorian recording is available on Spotify, so I'll take a listen (also a cheap 'used' offering on the Amazon MP if I want the recording). As to the non-SQ chamber works not much seems available w/o mixing in other composers - there is a Goldner SQ recording (below) but don't need a third version of the 2nd SQ unless I cull out the older Borodin - it's available at BRO for $9 USD. Dave :)
P.S. just found another Borodin CD, i.e. below right w/ Ashkenazy doing the dances w/ a chorus - will take a re-listen.
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71J9OF3HIeL._SL1200_.jpg) (https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/71+Te25oUML._SL1200_.jpg)
My memory of the chamber music works that you don't own are that they are quite early pieces, not in his mature Russian style but more of a Mendelssohnian style (like Symphony No. 1), and therefore not essential to own.
I'd say only the two string quartets are "essential" and I would not get rid of the recording of the eponymous quartet. Naxos or Marco Polo had a disc with the cello sonata, quintet? and another one.
You might want to try another recording of the symphonies although I don't know any of the ones you listed. Cheapish twofers are with Rozhdestvensky (Brilliant?) and Davis (Sony) but the 2nd symphony is the most recorded one with some more prominent conductors (Mitropoulos, Kleiber, Ansermet...)
Quote from: Jo498 on March 10, 2022, 10:28:01 AM
I'd say only the two string quartets are "essential" and I would not get rid of the recording of the eponymous quartet. Naxos or Marco Polo had a disc with the cello sonata, quintet? and another one.
You might want to try another recording of the symphonies although I don't know any of the ones you listed. Cheapish twofers are with Rozhdestvensky (Brilliant?) and Davis (Sony) but the 2nd symphony is the most recorded one with some more prominent conductors (Mitropoulos, Kleiber, Ansermet...)
Hi
Brian &
Jo498 - believe that I'll forgo getting more chamber works, the SQs are enough for me too - and I've had the Borodin SQ recording for decades so not about to remove from my collection - 8)
As to Schwarz and the Symphonies, the attached reviews indicate a top-notch recording and includes
Brian's excellent MusicWeb review and recommendation as 'Bargain of the Month' - not sure if he feels the same but certainly encouraged me back then to purchase the CD - Dave :)
Quote from: Brian on March 10, 2022, 10:17:01 AM
My memory of the chamber music works that you don't own are that they are quite early pieces, not in his mature Russian style but more of a Mendelssohnian style (like Symphony No. 1), and therefore not essential to own.
IMO, it would be wrong to dismiss the 1st Symphony as an immature, Mendelssohnian work. ;) It has plenty of Russian heft and muscle, and some quasi-"exotic" lyricism in the gorgeous slow movement. Tjeknavorian's recording on RCA is stunning!
Quote from: kyjo on March 10, 2022, 12:38:44 PM
IMO, it would be wrong to dismiss the 1st Symphony as an immature, Mendelssohnian work. ;) It has plenty of Russian heft and muscle, and some quasi-"exotic" lyricism in the gorgeous slow movement. Tjeknavorian's recording on RCA is stunning!
+1 for Symphony 1 - no idea how it can be considered immature or Mendelssohnian!
Hey Maestro267, don't behave as a child and unlock the Salgado thread. Do you feel affected by what he tells you about the music? ::)
Quote from: Symphonic Addict on March 11, 2022, 03:00:30 PM
Hey Maestro267, don't behave as a child and unlock the Salgado thread. Do you feel affected by what he tells you about the music? ::)
Indeed. I don't understand his reasoning for locking the thread.
Anyone have any thoughts on this chamber music set?
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAyNjc1Mi4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0Mzk1NjUwOTd9)
Quote from: Franco_Manitobain on April 27, 2023, 06:18:57 AMAnyone have any thoughts on this chamber music set?
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAyNjc1Mi4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0Mzk1NjUwOTd9)
Just listening to the
Piano Quintet for the very first time (Alexander Mndoiantz on the piano) and am absolutely stunned as to how beautiful of a work this is. :o
I have not heard a note of Borodin, after all these years. Where should I start?
Quote from: vers la flamme on May 19, 2023, 09:12:06 AMI have not heard a note of Borodin, after all these years. Where should I start?
Nothing to feel bad about.... I myself haven't heard much yet. I'm not familiar with the symphonies yet.
I'm only familiar with the string quartets and the Polovtsian Dances.
Quote from: vers la flamme on May 19, 2023, 09:12:06 AMI have not heard a note of Borodin, after all these years. Where should I start?
My introduction to Borodin was playing his 2nd Symphony in high school. I might be a bit biased, but that is probably a good place to start. The slow movement is one of my favorites. Tjeknavorian's recording is excellent.
Polovtsian Dances is also a lot of fun (and I played it twice, both with and without chorus).
I'm also curious about what other people recommend!
Quote from: vers la flamme on May 19, 2023, 09:12:06 AMI have not heard a note of Borodin, after all these years. Where should I start?
You should start off the beaten track, namely here:
(https://storage.highresaudio.com/2021/03/23/wytcr6-historyoft-preview-m3.jpg)
Quote from: vers la flamme on May 19, 2023, 09:12:06 AMI have not heard a note of Borodin, after all these years. Where should I start?
The symphonies.
Quote from: vers la flamme on May 19, 2023, 09:12:06 AMI have not heard a note of Borodin, after all these years. Where should I start?
Symphony No. 2. Great work.
The core pieces are the 2nd symphony, 2nd string quartet, and Polovetsian dances (even better with choir). Borodin really was a part-time composer (chemistry professor), so he didn't write a lot. The 1st symphony and string quartet are also quite good, the other chamber music mentioned above worth trying if one likes the style.
I only knew the Polovetsian Dances, which I love for their beguiling melodies. I do need to investigate more!
I'm sure this will make any/all Borodin purists twitch - I love Kismet! What a great piece of Hollywood Hokum. Wrong by modern standards on just about every level - mauling Borodin's music, stereotyping women and cultures..... BUT, if you can put all that to one side and listen to the music as just a bit of operettaish whimsy its just glorious. The way Wright & Forrest metamorphed Borodin's wonderful tunes into something quite different is pure brilliant kitsch. The complete recording here
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51uZsdfhqnL._AC_SY355_.jpg)
is excellent because all the performers are absolutely top notch and play it for all its worth. The Philharmonia sound fantastic and all the Hollywood style new orchestrations by Arthur Kay come up perfectly OTT. If it were done less well it would be naff. Big bonus is to hear the great and much missed Bruce Hubbard on the filler tracks from the (non-Borodin) Timbuktu
"Unpopular opinion" it may be, but I much prefer String Quartet No. 1 over the more popular 2nd.
By the way, are there any recordings of the full string quartet dedicated to Beliaeff, better known as the B-La-F quartet?
It included contributions by Rimsky-Korsakov, Glazunov, Liadov and Borodin.
Borodin's movement was the Serenata alla spanola
Quote from: Franco_Manitobain on May 25, 2023, 04:25:06 AM"Unpopular opinion" it may be, but I much prefer String Quartet No. 1 over the more popular 2nd.
It's certainly a underrated work, and I definitely prefer its thrilling, syncopated finale to the respective movement of the the 2nd quartet (it's definitely the weakest movement of that work IMO).
Quote from: Franco_Manitobain on April 27, 2023, 06:18:57 AMAnyone have any thoughts on this chamber music set?
(https://d1iiivw74516uk.cloudfront.net/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJwcmVzdG8tY292ZXItaW1hZ2VzIiwia2V5IjoiODAyNjc1Mi4xLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTAwfSwianBlZyI6eyJxdWFsaXR5Ijo2NX0sInRvRm9ybWF0IjoianBlZyJ9LCJ0aW1lc3RhbXAiOjE0Mzk1NjUwOTd9)
I was just sampling it on Spotify, and I found the performances distinctly lacking in just about every important factor - appealing sonority, rhythmic verve, artistic phrasing, any sense of "Slavic" character, etc. Borodin's soulful music deserves much better. There aren't too many alternative recordings for some of the lesser-known works, but they do exist and are always preferable to the ones in this Brilliant set. "Brilliant" in terms of cheapness, convenience, and completeness, yes - but not in terms of performance quality... ::) ;D
Quote from: kyjo on May 27, 2023, 09:05:28 AM"Brilliant" in terms of cheapness, convenience, and completeness, yes - but not in terms of performance quality... ::) ;D
I can relate to that. I've come across several of those recordings (their original productions, not the reissues of other labels) and they leave much to be desired.
Quote from: kyjo on May 27, 2023, 09:05:28 AMI was just sampling it on Spotify, and I found the performances distinctly lacking in just about every important factor - appealing sonority, rhythmic verve, artistic phrasing, any sense of "Slavic" character, etc. Borodin's soulful music deserves much better. There aren't too many alternative recordings for some of the lesser-known works, but they do exist and are always preferable to the ones in this Brilliant set. "Brilliant" in terms of cheapness, convenience, and completeness, yes - but not in terms of performance quality... ::) ;D
I for one am really enjoying these "brilliant" performances. 😁
Nevertheless Kyle, do you have recommendations for performances of the lesser known chamber works (outside of the two string quartets)?