Glinka/Balakirev -  Réminiscenses de l’opéra “La Vie pour le Czar“ (audio + sheet music)

At the instigation of Glinka’s sister, Balakirev published his fantasia on Glinka’s A Life for the Tsar in 1899, but in a revised version—the original, one of his first piano compositions, dating from 1853–56, now exists only in fragments. Ivan Susanin, the doomed hero of Glinka’s opera, was the leader of resistance against the Poles during the early 17th century. Balakirev uses to great effect the trio in Act 1 where Antonida, Susanin’s daughter, and her fiancé, plead to be allowed to marry: soon it will be winter and the time for weddings past. Susanin insists there can be no wedding until the Poles are expelled. Balakirev’s version has marvellous balalaika effects and magical scales representing falling snowflakes. The ensuing Polonaise from Act 3—in which Susanin, having relented now that Moscow has elected a new Tsar, invites all the villagers to the eve-of-wedding celebration—Balakirev treats it in a colourful and exciting virtuoso manner. (Naxos Music Library) Please take note that the audio AND sheet music ARE NOT mine. Feel free to change the video quality to a minimum of 480p for the best watching experience. Original audio: Alexander Paley ( Original sheet music: ’A_Life_for_the_Tsar’_(Balakirev,_Mily)