Johann Straus II - Vergnügungszug (Pleasure Train), op. 281

Johann Strauss II , known for his waltzes and lively compositions, had a unique approach to his creative process. He consistently sought contemporary and relevant themes to serve as the driving force behind his new musical compositions. This approach ensured that his work remained fresh and connected with the audiences of his time.  One notable instance of this creative approach was the composition of this polka, composed in 1864. This piece of music was specifically crafted for a summer concert held in the picturesque Russian town of Pavlovsk. It's fascinating to note that Strauss drew inspiration for this composition from the world around him. In this case, he found it in the emerging technology of the time, namely, the steam locomotive. The composition itself is a testament to Strauss's ability to capture the essence and energy of the subject matter. The rhythm of this dance piece mirrors the rhythmic chugging and movements of the old-fashioned steam trains that were prevale
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Vivaldi - "Spring" (La primavera) from the "Four Seasons", Concerto No. 1 in E major, Op. 8, RV 269

Nicolas Poussin’s painting depicts a green scenery with a couple sitting on the grass
Nicolas Poussin’s painting depicts spring, perfectly rendering the atmosphere of the season just like
Vivaldi’s Four-Seasons music.


I. Allegro

"Springtime is upon us.
The birds celebrate her return with festive song,
and murmuring streams are softly caressed by the breezes.
Thunderstorms, those heralds of Spring, roar, casting their dark mantle over heaven.
Then they die away to silence,
and the birds take up their charming songs once more."

“Spring has arrived and the birds welcome it by singing”, Vivaldi writes. The inaugural Allegro features a cool and cheerful melody. Soloists and violins mimic the singing of birds with trills. Some phrases bring to mind a stream and a gentle breeze, while a vigorous tremor, fast scales and a small rushing solo indicate a storm.

II. Largo e pianissimo sempre

"On the flower strewn meadow, with leafy branches rustling overhead,
the goat-heard sleeps, his faithful dog beside him."

The second part, Largo, which is a long, tender melody for solo accompanied by strings, paints the peaceful scene of a shepherd with his dog, half asleep under a few trees.


III. Allegro

"Led by the festive sound of rustic bagpipes, nymphs and shepherds
lightly dance beneath the brilliant canopy of spring."

In contrast, the final Allegro, is a calm “Country dance” in which the soloist plays with the orchestra, while at the same time is leading it.





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