Album insights
Antar, a brilliant, invincible warrior and a poet of wondrous power, is depicted by Epiphanius Wilson as a more vivid figure than King Arthur of England and as real and historically authentic as Cid of Spain. Born of a prince and a black woman of exceptional beauty, he displayed early prowess by killing a dog over a piece of goat meat and a wolf by the age of ten. Throughout his life, he added slaves and a lion to his macabre list of trophies. The legend of Antar, according to Wilson, delves into noble yet passionate emotions, portraying sensitivity, open-heartedness, truthfulness, and naivety.
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov drew inspiration from the story of Antar, as detailed by Ivanovich Sankovsky, also known as Baron Brambeus. Sankovsky, a versatile Russian journalist, editor, and critic, influenced Rimsky-Korsakov's decision to compose a symphonic suite based on Antar's tale. The music was divided into four sections, each with its distinct program. The narrative unfolds in the desert of Sham, where Antar encounters a gazelle that leads him to a dreamlike encounter with the Queen of Palmyra, Peri Gul Nazar, promising him life's three great pleasures.
The symphonic music evokes Antar's journey, diving into themes of vengeance, power, and ultimately, love. Antar's pact with Gul Nazar concludes tragically as she fulfills her promise to end his life when his passion wanes. Rimsky-Korsakov's work on Antar went through several revisions until its final publication, culminating in a realization that the piece was more of a legend, a suite, or a tale, rather than a symphony.
As an artist with specific views on the titles and interpretations of his compositions, Rimsky-Korsakov vehemently opposed dance adaptations of his works. He expressed disdain for Isadora Duncan's dance interpretations of his pieces, detesting any gestures to dance to his music. In contrast, his Overture "Easter" features themes from Russian Orthodox chants, blending the solemnity and festivity of the Easter story in a powerful symphonic portrayal. The composition recites biblical passages, recounting the resurrection of Jesus Christ with rich orchestral textures and heavenly choral elements.
Rimsky-Korsakov's attention to historical and spiritual details in his works resonates with his deep connection to the Easter traditions he experienced as a child in Tikhvin, shaping his musical journey with a profound sense of authenticity and reverence.