Russian Dance Suite

In many of his works, Kees Vlak has dealt with different peoples, their essence and above all with their music. When he was invited by the brass band of the Minsk Conservatory, it was this visit that inspired him to create his "Russian Dance Suite". He was particularly touched by the Slavic Belarusians' love of their homeland and their folk music. Surprisingly, the most common musical instrument used there is not the balalaika, but an instrument similar to the Hungarian cimbalon.

• Ouvertüre

Here the composer processes the reception and his first impressions. The Belarusians seemed to him to be cosmopolitan, little influenced by moods and striving forward full of energy. For this reason, the overture is also characterized by its positive forward thrust.

• Elegischer Tanz

In this movement, the composer recalls many warlike conflicts that took place on the soil of Belarus and also the poverty in which essential parts of the population have to live.

• Petruschka

To this movement the composer notes: "The music leads us back into history. In Moscow and the other cities of the country there were the'Petrushkas'; these were jugglers who usually consisted of dancers, acrobats, musicians, singers, comedians and often also cheaters. Under the reign of Ivan IV the Terrible, many of them were killed or robbed of their last possessions."

• Trepak

The final movement of the suite is a trepak. This is a fast Russian dance, which is relatively similar to the Italian Tarantella. The character of the Belarusian people and the strength they possess are clearly evident in a rapid succession of unexpected ideas.