Russian spiritual chants

(Photo: Natalya Loginova )

Great Hall of the Conservatory
Moscow

In his youth, Vladimir Fedoseev conducted the premieres of new works by Shostakovich and Sviridov, classics of Russian music of the twentieth century. Now the conductor himself is called a living classic. Wanting to confirm his reputation, Fedoseev tries to turn each of his major Moscow concerts into a historical event. Last week, the Big Symphony Orchestra and Yurlov Choir under the direction of the conductor (pictured) in Moscow performed ancient spiritual chants in arrangements by the Moscow composer and researcher of Russian music Anton Viskov. Including “Accept Me, O Desert,” which is attributed to Ivan the Terrible himself, as well as choruses recreated from Mussorgsky’s unpublished sketches for the opera “Khovanshchina.” True, Mussorgsky’s usual intonations were almost not felt in Viskov’s reconstructions. But these works were perfect for the majestic finale of the concert, when Fedoseev, in a halo of multi-colored spotlights, commanded a huge chapel and orchestra.

March 29, 2000