Sir Granville Bantock - Russian Scenes (1/2)

Bantock's "Russian Scenes" was compsed in 1899 as a companion to a suite of English Scenes (which I don't yet have but will acquire and post when I can). They are, perhaps obviously, a tribute to the music and composers of Russia. The suite consists of 5 pieces. The first three are presented here. They are: I At the Fair (a lively, brass and string presentation) II Mazurka (a polish ball-room dance) III Polka (an energetic romp) The final piece, presented in part 2 of my post, is, perhpas, most easily associated with the title "Russian Scenes" but I believe that Bantock did carry the theme quite well throughout. Bantock was an accomplished teacher and was the Principal of the Birmingham and Midland Institute of Music (following his friend Edward Elgar in the position). Bantock was knighted in 1930, joining his friend Elgar in the honor. The performance is by the Czecho-Slovak State Philharmonic Orchestra, Kosice led by Adrian Leaper. Enjoy!