Elena Kats-Chernin Knihy

The composition features three solo pieces created for violist Deborah Lander, a member of the Sydney Alpha Ensemble. The first piece showcases a classic ragtime style, cleverly omitting the accompanying piano. The second flows meditatively in a tranquil triple meter on the open D string. The final piece is a solo rendition of the renowned Eliza Aria from Kats-Chernin's ballet Wild Swans. These interludes can be performed individually or together, in any order, offering flexibility in programming.

The composition, originally created for a dance piece in the early 1990s, features a waltz that has endured over time, according to Elena Kats-Chernin. Initially written for solo piano, the composer later arranged it for string quartet. This version, characterized by its lyrical yet restrained quality, is included in a complete recording of her music performed by the Acacia Quartet.

The book showcases Elena Kats-Chernin's passion for Ragtime and Tango through an ironic and nostalgic miniature piece. It evokes the atmosphere of the famous Parisian Belle Époque cabaret, Le Chat Noir, delighting its guests with musical charm. The violin part captures the sensual purring of a black cat, enhancing the experience beyond the solo piano version. This work reflects a unique blend of cultural references and musical styles, offering an engaging auditory journey.

Elena Kats-Chernin composed this piece in 1996 as a tribute to fellow Australian composer Peggy Glanville-Hicks during a residency at her former home. Originally written for solo piano, it was later arranged for various ensembles, including bassoon or clarinet and violin with piano, solo clarinet, and string trio. The piano trio version, created in 2012 for the Streeton Trio, captures the lively essence of the Ragtime style and has been recorded on CD, showcasing its vibrant character and homage to Glanville-Hicks.

Inspired by the stories of individuals growing coffee and sugar under challenging conditions, this piece captures both the struggles and the resilience of those involved in Fair Trade. It blends earthy and poetic elements, reflecting the themes of optimism and hope. Originally created for a 2006 event, it features arrangements for viola and piano, violin and piano, and solo piano, with a string quartet version composed in 2007. The work serves as a tribute to the spirit of Fair Trade and the people behind it.

The book offers insights into the composer's personal reflections and creative process, providing a unique perspective on their musical works. It delves into the inspirations, challenges, and emotions that shaped the compositions, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the music's context and significance. Through detailed annotations, the author shares anecdotes and technical insights, making it an invaluable resource for music enthusiasts and aspiring composers alike.

The work showcases a rich tapestry of musical influences, spanning 200 years from Hungarian operetta to jazz and popular music, reflecting the composer’s deep connection to Russian ballet. Created for choreographer Meryl Tankard and premiered in Sydney in 2003, it became one of Elena Kats-Chernin's most successful pieces. The suite, arranged for piano trio, features iconic selections such as the renowned Eliza Aria and includes notable pieces like Green Leaf Prelude and Mute Princess, highlighting the ballet's diverse musical heritage.

The piece evokes a delicate imagery of notes resembling pollen over piano keys, reflecting on the beauty and elegance of roses sent to a loved one. Described by Elena Kats-Chernin, it captures the essence of love and potential farewell, encapsulated in a short, poetic composition. Created for the Love Song Project by pianist William Howard, it premiered at the Cheltenham International Music Festival in July 2017, highlighting its emotional depth and artistic significance.

The work features a one-minute piece composed by Elena Kats-Chernin for clarinetist Peter Jenkin, a member of the Sydney Alpha Ensemble. Drawing from melodic and harmonic elements of her earlier work for the Bang-On-A-Can All-Stars, this composition presents a vibrant miniature that evokes Klezmer influences. In just 25 measures, it showcases a variety of lively motifs, highlighting Kats-Chernin's unique style and creativity within a concise format.

Es ist nicht immer leicht, ein Kind zu sein. Das weiß niemand besser als Nils Holgersson. Die Eltern sind unzufrieden, dauernd gibt es Streit, und wohin man mit der eigenen schlechten Laune soll, weiß man auch nicht so recht. Richtig ärgerlich wird es aber erst, als Nils seine Wut an einem Wichtel auslässt. Der zaubert den frechen Jungen zur Strafe auf Däumling-Größe klein. Als dann auch noch Hausgans Marten vom Hof der Holgerssons abhauen will, schmeißt sich der jetzt sehr kleine Nils Marten an den Hals – und findet sich plötzlich mitten im Abenteuer und in einer Schar von Wildgänsen wieder! Das Märchen vom Jungen, der sich die Welt plötzlich aus der Luft anschaut – und das auch noch mit dem Körper eines Wichtels –, ist ein Klassiker der Kinderbuchliteratur. Als unterhaltsame Geographie-Stunde über ihre schwedische Heimat angelegt, hat Selma Lagerlöfs Roman nichts von seiner Aktualität verloren. Eine Geschichte über Mut, Freundschaft und Selbstvertrauen.