Moniuszko - Crimean Sonnets

[Christopher]

I have posted a recording of Stanisław Moniuszko's "Crimean Sonnets" cantata in the downloads section.  These are based on 8 of the eighteen sonnets written by Poland's favourite Romantic poet Adam Mickiewicz based on his travels in Crimea (more here - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Crimean_Sonnets.

As follows:

1. Intrada       Introduction
2. Cisza morska      Silent Sea
3. Żegluga      Sailing
4. Burza      Storm
5. Ruina (Bakczysaraj)      Ruins (Bakhchisarai)
6. Noc (Bakczysaraj w nocy)      Night (Bakhchisarai at night)
7. Hymn (Czatyrdah)      Hymn (Mount Chatyr-Dah)
8. Pielgrzym      Pilgrim
9. Epilog (Ajudah)      Epilogue (Mount Ayu-Dag)

Bakhchisarai was the capital in Crimea of the Crimean Tatar Khanate.  The Khan's Palace is still there and is a notable attraction still, particularly its famous fountain. 

Chatyr-Dah is a mountain, its name means Tent Mountain.

Ayu-Dag is also a mountain - its name means Bear Mountain, it looks like a bear stooping to drink from the sea (I've been there, it really does!).

According to a note which came with the recording, "Some of the titles in the score were changed from Mickiewicz's titles (maybe for censorship reasons?). That is why some sonnets have here first the title from the score, followed by the original title of A.Mickiewicz in parentheses."  Mickiewicz was certainly regarded as subversive by Czarist Russia, which ruled much of Poland at the time.  He was even imprisoned and internally exiled.

On a personal note, I can't say the music sets me on fire, but am posting nonetheless!

[Mark Thomas]

Thanks, Christopher. Very exotic!

[semloh]

Oooh, I like these! One can never have enough Moniuszko.
Many thanks, Christopher.

[Christopher]

Maybe I need to listen to them some more...  First few listens did nothing for me!   

[semloh]

Oh, your initial judgement is probably accurate, Christopher. I have very eclectic and sometimes unfathomable tastes! 

[Christopher]

Nooo! I don't think anyone's reaction to a piece can be called "accurate" as it's so subjective.  Or even a judgment.  My reaction to it shouldn't be taken as any kind of marker!