Instrumental Composition "Sad Waltz" by AlexLouder

AlexLouder's “Sad Waltz” is written in a style that can be called “Russian waltz”. This is a very special style. This very “Russian Waltz” is not at all a Viennese waltz in the style of the father and son Strauss, not a Parisian - with the same accordion and cracked baritone French chanson, and not the exquisite Chopin waltz. Russian Waltz is a completely different phenomenon, in many respects even more literary than musical.

Well-bred obscenity

The ability to waltz today seems to be a sign of aristocracy, and after all some two centuries ago this dance was considered completely indecent. In Russia, the waltz was under strict prohibition, which secured the order of Paul I to the military governor of St. Petersburg Alexei Arakcheev on December 1, 1797. Together with the waltz, the emperor forbade other "indecent phenomena": the wearing of whiskers, tail coats, and "jackboots, referred to as boots." In pristine Britain, until the middle of the 19th century, dance, in which partners approached each other very closely, was condemned by the official press and the clergy. So even the Queen Victoria, who ruled at that time, did not advertise that she actually loved to waltz. In 1834, for the first time, the waltz was publicly danced in the USA, in Boston, and outraged public figures called the dance "indecent and violating any decency".

Top 10 Symphonies You Should Own

Want to start a symphony collection, but don't know where to begin? Are you looking to expand upon what you already have? This list of symphonies will provide you with a variety of musical styles upon which to build or add to your symphony collection.

1. Mahler Symphony No. 9 in D Major

If you've never heard Mahler's Symphony No. 9, grab a blanket, sit by the fire, and melt into the lush orchestration Mahler so masterfully created. Mahler wrote this symphony knowing that the end of his life was near. Some believe the fourth movement represents the five psychological stages of death: denial and isolation, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance. Mahler undoubtedly fits the romantic style to the "t"; heart-wrenching tension followed by ever-so-sweet resolve. Learn more about the life of Mahler in this Mahler profile.

2. Haydn Symphony No. 34 in d minor

One of Haydn's lesser known works, this flawless piece from the classical period is perfectly balanced with emotion and art. The first movement melodies float above rivers of low tones. The upbeat rhythms of the second movement are sure to make you dance; it's any Haydn lover's "pop" music. The third movement menuetto brings images of courtly balls and high tea. The final movement expertly brings closure to the symphony and sends the audience home happy and content. Learn more about Haydn in this Haydn profile.