Anatol LIADOV (1855-1914)

 

Orchestral Works:

Baba Yaga, Op. 56; Intermezzo, Op. 8; Ballade, Op. 21b; The Enchanted Lake, Op. 62; Mazurka, Op. 19; Nenie, op. 67; Polonaise, Op. 49; Polonaise, Op. 63; Kikimora, Op. 63; Fragment from The Apocalypse, Op. 66

 

Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra,

Stephen Gunzenhauser

 

 

• This release, formerly issued on Marco Polo, is an excellent introduction to the work of a Russian composer described by Stravinsky as “one of the most progressive musicians of his generation”.

 

• Small-scale but beautifully turned, Liadov’s music was often inspired by Russian folk tales. As befitted a pupil of Rimsky-Korsakov, his command of the orchestra was second to none, and his ability to create swiftly an appropriate sense of atmosphere was remarkable. The works contained on this disc serve as a reminder of why his music has appealed so strongly to ballet choreographers: it is tuneful, rhythmically fresh and varied and above all, full of colour and vitality.

 

• The programme includes “The Enchanted Lake” and “Kikimora”, two of Liadov’s best known works, as well as a number of lesser known but equally attractive works, such as his two Polonaises.

 

 

Naxos 8555242