Programme Note: Rimsky-Korsakov – “Procession of the Nobles” from “Mlada”
Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Procession of the Nobles,” extracted from the opera-ballet “Mlada,” exemplifies the composer’s mastery in orchestration and his ability to evoke vivid sonic imagery. Composed in 1890, Rimsky-Korsakov, a prominent Russian composer and member of the Mighty Handful, crafted this piece as part of the vibrant tapestry of “Mlada,” a work that fuses opera, ballet, and drama.
“Procession of the Nobles” is a spirited and grand orchestral interlude, conveying a ceremonial procession with its majestic fanfares and dynamic rhythms. Rimsky-Korsakov’s brilliant orchestration, featuring a rich palette of brass and percussion, captures the splendor and pageantry of the scene. For music students, exploring this composition provides an opportunity to appreciate Rimsky-Korsakov’s keen sense of orchestral color and his ability to transport listeners to a world of Russian folklore and historical drama within the confines of a concise and exhilarating orchestral piece.
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