Borodin
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Alexander BORODIN |
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Alexander Borodin (BOR-o-din) was a Russian composer, a member of the "Russian Five" or "Mighty Five" as they were called. Like other composers in the last part of the Romantic Period, their music became a symbol of national pride. They used folk tales and music of their country as a basis for their classical music compositions. (Remember Grieg and Dvorák also used folk music and tales.)
Borodin was only seven years old when his father died. He was raised by his cultured mother with the help of a governess and private tutors. He became fluent in several languages, and excelled very early in natural sciences and music. He learned to play the flute and piano. His best friend was also a music prodigy, and they searched for classical music duets that they could play together.
Borodin was a child prodigy and a double genius. He excelled in both chemistry and music. He had a distinguished career as a chemist, but also managed to find time for music. Music was a diversion, but an important one. Every hour he could take from his research he used to play the piano and cello, or to compose. His wife was a pianist and shared his love of music.
The Polovtsian (Po-LOFT-zian) Dances are part of Prince Igor, an opera by Borodin. Prince Igor and his son, Vladimir, are captured by the Polovtsi, a Tartar tribe. They are taken to the camp of the Polovtsi. Although Igor and Vladimir are prisoners, they are treated as royal guests with food and entertainment. The Khan even offers freedom to Prince Igor if he will promise never to make war on him again. Prince Igor admits that if he were free, he would form an army to fight the Tartars because they threaten the peace of his land. The Khan admires Prince Igor's honesty and calls for the dancers to entertain them. Thus begin the Polovtsian Dances.
A theme from the Polovtsian Dance was used in Kismet, a Broadway play of 1953. The popular song was called "Stranger in Paradise."
Additional Info
- Compositions: Prince Igor - Polovtsian Dance
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