Album insights
Russian composer Alexander Glazunov holds a unique place for piano music among his works, showcasing various facets of his talent. Noteworthy for his skills as a miniaturist, elegance in salon music, harmonic boldness, and mastery of contrapuntal structures, Glazunov is also credited with a special role in the broader context of Russian music development. He inherited the advocacy for a Russian national expression from Glinka and the ambition of Anton Rubinstein to integrate Russian art into the main course of European culture. Guided by national composer Balakirev and taught by Rimsky-Korsakov, he embraced elements of Tchaikovsky's style while remaining aligned with Rubinstein, notably as the head of the St. Petersburg Conservatory.
Despite Western neglect, Glazunov's influence as a pivotal figure in Russian music continued with significant impact on subsequent generations of post-Revolution composers, most notably influencing his greatest student, Shostakovich. His Prelude and Fugue, Op. 62, composed in D minor in 1899, reveals his academic prowess—a testament to his technical excellence. This extensive work, also adapted for symphonic organ, demonstrates intricate musical layers, showcasing the pianist's technical prowess with lines composed using thirds, sixths, and uniform chords. Contrapuntal structures feature prominently in Glazunov's music, providing insights for Shostakovich during his time at the St. Petersburg Conservatory.
Glazunov composed two more Preludes and Fugues for organ in 1910 and 1915, while completing his Four Preludes and Fugues, Op. 101, for piano in 1918, marking exceptional achievement. As newer voices like Stravinsky and Prokofiev emerged, Glazunov's music, perceived as outdated around 1918, reflected attempts to align with avant-garde trends as seen in his Two Preludes-Improvisations. Surprisingly, amid subtle mockery from young composers, Glazunov's pursuit of composing a series of Preludes and Fugues showcased his compositional skills in this intellectually demanding medium. Each piece, including the a minor Prelude, the solemn c minor Fugue with varying themes, and the compact and harmonious C major Fugue, exudes brilliance.
Exploring the Prelude and Fugue in E minor, composed in 1926 and later transcribed for organ, dedicated to Leonid Nikolayev, unveils Glazunov's resilience amidst challenging circumstances. Despite his declining health and deteriorating conditions, Glazunov's musical materials radiate a remarkable confidence, mirrored in Idyll, Op. 103 of the same year. Shostakovich reflects on these difficult times, highlighting Glazunov's enduring influence on his students despite personal struggles and the harsh post-Revolution era. Shostakovich emphasizes the necessity of continuous work, noting how it became Glazunov's salvation and commitment to preserving his musical legacy, transcending his personal hardships.