Majestic and nation-defying music is no small feat, demanding spirit, nationalism and honour. However, music coming from one’s core can ask something special too. Maybe at times even ask more, in the way George Walker’s ‘Lyric for Strings’ blends lamentation and lushness direct from the Pulitzer Prize-winning composer’s emotional core.

It was a question of emotional core which played on the mind of Tchaikovsky when he wrote his ‘Serenade for Strings’, one of the most loved pieces for string orchestra. We hear Tchaikovsky reaching into his innermost feelings, his nostalgic adoration for Mozart, and the energy and influence of Russian folk music. Many said it was the best thing he had yet written.

This magical film celebrates composers who ask something special of themselves and write from the heart. The result is music that gives something truly special back to the world.

Our fourth film in the ACO StudioCasts series.

PROGRAM:
00:00 — TCHAIKOVSKY Serenade for Strings, Op.48
29:07 — CRAWFORD SEEGER Andante for Strings
32:26 — RAVEL (arr. Tognetti) Deux mélodies hébraïques
38:00 — TCHAIKOVSKY Andante Cantabile for cello and strings
44:57 — WALKER Lyric for Strings

ARTISTS:
Richard Tognetti – Director & Violin
Timo-Veikko Valve – Cello
Matisse Ruby – Director
Drew English – Director of Photography
Australian Chamber Orchestra