Russian Easter Overture in D Major

For Rimsky-Korsakov, a Russian Easter combined fascinating extremes of celebration—from the solemn cathedral service on Saturday evening to what he called the “pagan merrymaking” of Sunday morning, when Christ arises and spring begins to emerge from frozen winter. In 1888, Rimsky composed his Russian Easter Overture, illustrating “the legendary and heathen side of the holiday”. Using themes from the Obikhod, a collection of Russian Orthodox Church music, the Overture begins with a slow introduction quoting chant material, including passages on solo violin and a duet for flute and cello. The tempo eventually quickens to a fiery “Allegro”, with trumpets, scurrying strings and bell imitations heralding Christ’s imminent resurrection. At the conclusion, brass fanfares announce the animated celebrations of Easter morning, with volleys of percussion wrenching up the excitement. A masterly display of instrumental colour and musical theatrics, the Russian Easter Overture remains one of Rimsky-Korsakov’s most frequently performed pieces.