Scenes of Russia

The well-known folksong Meadowlands is the basis for this spectacular Russian fantasy. The cantabile opening is particularly nice for the woodwinds, and all the parts are quite playable for bands at the easy level. The bold nature of the melody allows the brass to open up their sound a bit, while the con spirito section offers interesting counterpoint and exciting rhythms. A general sense of the bleakness of a Russian landscape in winter, and the strength and determination of the Russian people, comes through.