This suite was written in the style of traditional Russian folk music, but does not use existing melodies or themes as its basis. The colourful and varied work contains a number of surprising turns, but also familiar sounds. After the introduction, a kind of Trepak follows ? a fairly quick dance with attractive themes. The second movement (Garovot) is predominantly slow and conveys some melancholy, although, during a more dynamic passage the passion flares up again. Finally, the Troika takes us along in a reindeer sleigh through a grand snowy landscape. This is a wonderful tribute to the music of Eastern Europe in the style of some of the great Russian masters. 0:13:30
