Presents
Nikolai Sokolov
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There is no recording of this work. We have presented 2 soundbites of his works from Les Vendredis which were composed around the same time. They will give you some idea as to his style and melodic gifts |
String Quartet No.1 in F Major, Op.7
Nikolai Sokolov (1859–1922) was born in St. Petersburg and studied at the conservatory there under Rimsky-Korsakov. He became one of several composers, mostly students of Korsakov such as Glazunov and Borodin, who came to be known as the Belaiev Circle, named after the important Russian music publisher, M.P. Belaiev. These composers dedicated themselves to creating a “Russian School”, (i.e. Russian-sounding). Sokolov eventually became a professor at the Petersburg Conservatory where Alexander Tcherepnin and Dmitri Shostakovich were among his many students.
He wrote music for the ballet and orchestra as well as chamber music, including three string quartets. Today, if he is known at all, it is for his contributions to a collection of short pieces for string quartet by the composers of the Belaiev Circle. The collection came to be known as Les Vendredis, It commemorated the chamber music concerts and banquets which took place most Friday evenings at the mansion of the publisher Belaiev. All of the pieces in the collection were specifically composed for those Friday evening concerts.
"String Quartet No.1 was composed in 1890 and was published by Belaiev. The main theme of the first movement, Allegro moderato, is powerful and richly scored. The second theme is driving and has even more forward motion. The mood of the Andante which follows is darkly colored by its sad melody. A lively, bright scherzo, Allegro, brightens things up and is complimented by a lovely contrasting trio. The festive main theme of the finale, Allegro, is undeniably Russian and full of energy while the second subject is a kind rustic Russian peasant dance. Here is a work which is fun to play, sounds good and makes a good impression."---The Chamber Music Journal.
Written under the influence of Rimsky-Korsakov, this quartet is a fine example of his teaching with its appealing melodies and unusual rhythms Out of print for over 100 years, this is one you will enjoy.
Parts: $24.95
Parts & Score: $31.95
