Album insights
Kammermusik from the mid-19th century Russian nationalist circle was somewhat neglected, with Borodin's string quartets being the most significant works created for this specific ensemble. Borodin's early compositions were mainly chamber music pieces designed for private gatherings. He had a keen interest in music since his youth, receiving a thorough education and forming musical partnerships with fellow enthusiasts. Borodin's passion for the cello led him to compose a Sonata in B minor for the instrument during his studies in Germany.
Borodin's Cello Sonata, reconstructed by Mikhail Goldstein, integrates elements reminiscent of Bach's work in its thematic development. The piece showcases Borodin's expertise in blending lyrical and rhapsodic elements. The sonata's slow movement hints at themes later featured in Borodin's renowned Chamber work. The final movement of the Sonata, beginning with a majestic theme related to Bach, evolves into a lively Presto, allowing both instruments to shine.
In Borodin's Klavierquintett in C minor, composed during a transformative encounter with Balakirew, nationalist influences are evident, with variations reflecting a melismatic Russian style. The composition features a structured exploration of diverse musical motifs that merge seamlessly throughout the piece. By comparison, Borodin's subsequent string quartets, sophisticated and salon-oriented, show influences from Beethoven and Mendelssohn. The Quartet in D major, in particular, exudes inventive flair and compelling melodies.
Borodin's deep appreciation for melody is apparent in his String Quartet No. 2, dedicated to his wife. The piece, rich with enchanting themes, flows gracefully within the traditional sonata form, evoking warmth and generosity. The scherzo and notturno movements of the quartet exhibit a blend of oriental sensuality and classical elegance, with memorable themes that resonate through time. The joyful finale of the quartet incorporates contrasting motifs interwoven in counterpoint, embodying a harmonious fusion of Western structure and Eastern richness.