Alexander Borodin Livres

(Vocal Collection). A set of 4 art songs: La princesse endormie , Dissonance , Mon chant est amer et sauvage and La mer . Text in Russian and French with English translations.

(Vocal Collection). A set of 4 art songs: La princesse endormie , Dissonance , Mon chant est amer et sauvage and La mer . Text in Russian and French with English translations.

The book delves into the creation of Borodin's first symphonic work, initiated in 1862 under the guidance of Mily Balakirev. It highlights the composition's evolution over five years, culminating in its successful premiere in 1868, which marked Borodin's emergence as a significant figure in Russian orchestral music. The score included is a digitally-enhanced reprint from a 1946 edition by the Soviet State Publisher Muzgiz, based on an earlier version edited by Rimsky-Korsakov and Glazunov after Borodin's passing.

The work explores the essential components of a vibrant civil society and its critical role in fostering liberal democracy. It challenges the notion that a flourishing civil society can hinder democratic development, arguing instead that it must promote fundamentally democratic values. The research focuses on Michael Edwards' three models of civil society—associational life, the good society, and the public sphere—while contrasting these with the broader concept of social capital. The study aims to identify the key elements of civil society that support the emergence of genuine liberal democracy.

The book details the creation of Borodin's second symphony, highlighting the composer's challenges, including the misplacement of orchestral scores and the need to re-orchestrate movements from a piano score before a 1877 performance. It features a digitally-enhanced, corrected reprint of the original 1946 score by Muzgiz, edited by Clinton Nieweg and Nancy Bradburd. Their extensive research ensures a highly authoritative version of this beloved work, part of Borodin's celebrated symphonic contributions.

The essay explores Isaiah Berlin's distinction between positive and negative liberty, emphasizing how these concepts often contrast and can conflict. Negative liberty focuses on individual non-interference, while positive liberty emphasizes the agent's control. Berlin argues that negative liberty aligns with political pluralism, as it allows for diverse human expression. The author challenges Berlin's view by suggesting that enhancing positive liberty can actually support negative liberties, provided individuals remain true to their authentic goals rather than conforming to a dominant paradigm.

Borodin's In the Steppes of Central Asia musically portrays a caravan journeying through the Caucasus, safeguarded by Russian troops. Premiering in St. Petersburg in 1880, the piece evolves from a quiet beginning to a powerful climax, intertwining Russian and Asian themes. It concludes with the themes fading as the caravan vanishes into the distance. This newly engraved edition by Richard W. Sargeant, Jr. highlights the work's brilliance, catering to both professional and amateur musicians.

The research paper explores the conditions affecting the emergence of liberal democracy in contemporary Russia, analyzing economic, social, and political factors. Utilizing Robert Dahl's criteria for an ideal democracy, it assesses Russia's current political landscape. The findings suggest that despite economic growth, Russia's centralized government and a depoliticized society hinder the development of democratic values. The author argues that significant societal transformation is essential for Russia to achieve true liberal democracy in both the short and long term.

Focusing on chamber and orchestral compositions, Borodin created the Tarantella in 1862 for piano four hands, showcasing his limited but vibrant piano repertoire. This piece is a dazzling display that utilizes the full range of the piano. Richard W. Sargeant, Jr.'s orchestration brings a rich, colorful sound to the work, enhancing its energetic and captivating qualities. The orchestral version captures the excitement and brilliance of Borodin's early composition, making it a unique addition to the classical repertoire.

The Polovtsian Dances feature two captivating pieces from the second act of Borodin's unfinished opera, Prince Igor. The first is the enchanting 'Dance of Polovtsian Maidens,' followed by the vibrant finale. After Borodin's death in 1887, Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov refined and orchestrated these selections for a concert in 1879, showcasing the rich cultural heritage and musical innovation of the time. The dances reflect Borodin's unique style, blending folk elements with classical composition.