This orchestral work idyllically depicts an interaction of Russians and Asians in the steppe lands of the Caucasus. A caravan of Central Asians is crossing the desert under the protection of Russian troops. The opening theme, representing the Russians, is heard first (see chart of themes below); then we hear the haunting strains of an ornamented eastern melody on English horn, representing the Asians. These two melodies eventually are combined contrapuntally. Amidst these two ethnic melodies is heard a "traveling" theme in pizzicato that represents the plodding hoofs of the horses and camels. At the end only the Russian theme is heard.
(Source: Wikipedia)
The Russian Theme is the one played by the dizi in the opening and closing bars, and the one at bar 123! The Travelling Theme is the pizzicato (plucking) by the cellos and the Eastern Theme is the one played by the guan. I hope that we'll be able to convey the grandeur of the troops and the galloping of the horse after understanding this piece~!
To end off, here's what Borodin himself wrote:
In the silence of the monotonous deserts of Central Asia are heard for the first time the strains of a peaceful Russian song. From the distance we hear the approach of horses and camels and the melancholy notes of an oriental melody. A caravan emerges out of the boundless steppe, escorted by Russian soldiers and continues safely and fearlessly on its long way, protected by the formidable military power of the conquerors. It slowly disappears, The tranquil songs of conqueror and conquered merge in harmony, echoes of which linger on as the caravan disappears in the distance.
(Source: http://www.classicalnotes.net/classics3/borodin.html , under "Career and Style")
I hope this hasn't bored you too badly! But it really is a lovely piece and I hope all of you reading are more motivated to play it well! :D You can read more about it in the links!
Love, COmm x
