12 ALBUM LEAVES
Russian Late Romantic Miniatures for Cello and Piano

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Artists: ALMATI DUO
Dmitrij Gornowskij, Cello
Amir Tebenikhin, Piano

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Total duration: approx. 60 minutes
(The duration of the programme can be adapted as needed.)

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CONCEPT AND PROGRAMME DESCRIPTION

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This programme presents Reinhold Glière’s 12 Albumblätter, Op. 51, a cycle of intimate miniatures for cello and piano, created in the spirit of Russian late Romanticism. Each “album leaf” captures a distinct emotional mood, ranging from reflective lyricism to playful lightness, forming a tapestry of fleeting impressions and delicate expression.

The cello’s rich, singing line unfolds over a supportive piano texture, allowing every nuance of tone, phrasing, and dynamic subtlety to be revealed. Together, the twelve pieces offer a window into Glière’s mastery of melody and harmony, his ability to create deeply expressive music within a small-scale form, and his characteristic poetic 20voice.

While compact, the cycle embodies the emotional breadth of Russian Romanticism, offering both performers and audience an intimate experience of lyricism, tenderness, and expressive nuance. Each album leaf is a small story, a musical snapshot of the composer’s imaginative world, resonating with warmth, nostalgia, and human feeling.

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PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

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Reinhold Glière – 12 Albumblätter, Op. 51 [approx. 60 min]

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1. Andante – lyrical, introspective, gentle unfolding of melody

2. Allegretto – light and playful, with rhythmic sparkle

3. Lento – calm and meditative, tender lyricism

4. Scherzo – lively, whimsical, dance-like energy

5. Andante sostenuto – expressive, reflective, almost elegiac

6. Allegro moderato – graceful movement with light humor

7. Adagio – deeply lyrical, emphasizing warmth and intimacy

8. Intermezzo – charming, delicate contrasts, gentle rhythms

9. Andantino – calm, flowing, subtle harmonic color

10. Capriccio – playful, spirited, a miniature fantasia

11. Larghetto – tender, expressive, singing cello lines

12. Finale: Allegro vivace – bright and joyful, closing the cycle with vitality