Russian Masters

BORODIN “Polovtsian Dances” from Prince Igor
RACHMANINOV Isle of the Dead
STRAVINSKY Petrushka

A breathtaking program that brings together three Russian masters – Borodin, Rachmaninov, and Stravinsky.  The program opens with the tantalizing tints, flaming colors and soaring melodies of Borodin’s popular Polovtsian Dances.   The Isle of the Dead depicts the ghostly ferryman of Greek mythology rowing the souls of the departed to judgement.   A remarkable work of the late Romantic era, it is a richly orchestrated jewel that evokes mystery and reverence.  This concert concludes with Stravinsky’s ballet Petrushka — an explosion of glorious color for the full orchestra.   Stravinsky’s second ballet tells the story of a mischievous puppet named Petrushka, a character of Russian folk puppetry known at least since 17th century. This tour de force is a don’t miss.