Mily Balakirev’s Chopin Suite
Notes by TŌN bassist Yu-Cih Chang
Mily Alexeyevich Balakirev was one of the most important figures in Russian music during the 19th century, known for his contributions as a composer, conductor, and pianist. He was the leader of the “Mighty Five”, a group of composers who sought to create a distinctly Russian sound in classical music, free from the influence of Western European traditions.
Balakirev’s Chopin Suite, composed in 1910, is a deeply felt homage to Chopin’s music, combining elements of the Romantic tradition with Russian color. In other words, the work is an amazing fusion of two musical styles, blending Chopin’s poetic lyricism with Balakirev’s own fiery passion and nationalistic style.
The Chopin Suite is made up of several short, evocative pieces by Chopin which Balakirev orchestrated. From the second piece, Mazurka, which pulses with the rhythmic energy of Chopin’s dance forms, to the tender, contemplative Intermezzo, which sounds like someone sighing with longing, Balakirev captures the essence of Chopin while adding his own distinctive character.
I think what is most captivating is how Balakirev orchestrated these pieces with his own cultural voice. He combined two different styles, marrying Romantic traditions with a Russian style. In addition, this suite is more than just a technical homage. It is a heartfelt, deeply personal interpretation of Chopin’s legacy, filled with moments of elegance, drama, and passion. It invites the audience to experience Chopin’s music in a fresh way, while also exploring the rich interplay between Russian and Polish musical traditions at the height of the Romantic era.