[Thorough study] Tchaikovsky 18 12 Overture
Text//Jackie
I. Preface:
In the early 1980s, Tchaikovsky's overture "18 12" was one of the designated tracks for Hong Kong fans to listen to. If you call yourself an enthusiast and haven't heard this overture, there are two possibilities. One is that you are young, and you may be a child born in the 1980s. The other is that you don't have a fever, but at most you just have a cold.
"Overture" originally refers to the opening music of an opera, ballet or oratorio. Since19th century, composers have often used this genre to create independent orchestral music, most of which are sonatas with titles. The overture of 18 12 is an independent orchestra with content.
According to music critics, the overture to 18 12 is not Tchaikovsky's best work. Even Chai himself said in a letter to (Tchaikovsky's main patron), "This overture will be very noisy, very noisy, and I didn't have much enthusiasm when I wrote it, and it may not have any artistic value. 」
Ironically, the overture of "18 12" was very popular at the premiere and won Tchaikovsky a high reputation. Later, it was staged in many cities in Russia, Germany, Czech Republic and Belgium. Since then, it has been one of the most vivid, popular and popular works in Tchaikovsky's symphony, which is probably unexpected by Tchaikovsky.
Second, the creation background of "18 12" overture.
Tchaikovsky wrote the 18 12 overture in 1880. The full name of the overture is "Grand Orchestra's Solemn Overture for the Inauguration of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow 18 12". Long enough! If you can recite every word when you buy a disc in a record store, I really admire you.
This song was written by Tchaikovsky at the request of teacher Nikolai? Rubinstein's invitation was written to celebrate the reconstruction of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in Moscow-this church was burnt down by the French-Russian war in 18 12 (in other words, this song was written for the Moscow Art Industry Expo).
Third, the content of "18 12" overture.
18 12, Napoleon led 600,000 troops to invade Russia in an attempt to annihilate the Russian army, occupy Moscow and force Russia to surrender. At the beginning of the war, Napoleon's army was in an advantageous position, the Russian army had to retreat gradually, and France approached Moscow. Russian commander Kutuzov adopted the strategy of clearing the field and burning food and grass, evacuated residents and led the army to evacuate Moscow temporarily. After Napoleon occupied Moscow for a month, he still couldn't force Russia to surrender. Instead, he trapped himself in a heavy siege and ordered him to leave Moscow. On the way back, Napoleon's army couldn't adapt to the harsh winter in Russia, coupled with hunger and Russian counterattacks, and finally fell apart. When Napoleon invaded Russia, as many as 600,000 troops were mostly wiped out, and finally less than 1 10,000 people fled the Russian border.
18 12 Overture is an orchestral work based on the above historical facts. Tchaikovsky described the events of 18 12 in this overture, including the peaceful life of the Russian people, the subsequent turmoil and riots, the fighting between the Russian and French armies, and the carnival scene in which Russia defeated the French army and the Russian people celebrated their victory.
Fourthly, why is the overture of "18 12" used as test equipment by audiophiles?
As I mentioned above, this overture is not one of Tchaikovsky's best works, but why is it widely used as test equipment by enthusiasts? There are many followers of Liu Hansheng in the audio forum here. To tell you the truth, Liu Hansheng also recommended the overture of 18 12 when testing orchestral music. ) The reason is simple. This overture not only uses formal orchestral instruments (including three timpani, triangle, tambourine, drum and cymbal, etc.). ), there are also uses.
When this overture was just staged, bells, drums and guns rang, which greatly excited the public attending the ceremony with the performance of the orchestra. After the modern dual-channel era, recording technology has made great progress. Several companies add real guns to their records, which fascinates audio lovers. They often use recorded real guns to test the strength, transient and low frequency of the equipment.
If you are not a "gun party", please listen to the whole song carefully and pay attention! The volume of this overture fluctuates greatly and many instruments are used. Listening carefully to strings, woodwinds, brass pipes and percussion instruments can test the timbre, image positioning, dynamics and dynamic contrast of your equipment. ...
If you can't distinguish the sounds of different instruments, you can buy a music disc of Peter and the Wolf first. I recommend you to buy NAXOS version (Peter and Wolf Naxos 8.554 170dx), picture books and CDs. The ordinary price is around 50 yuan, and the special price is more than 30 yuan (don't scold me if you are wrong). Any beginner of classical music and parents with children, I recommend you to buy a copy of Peter and the Wolf. In the story of this song, each role is played by one of the instruments of the orchestra, which is very helpful for your voice discrimination. The child must be happy to listen (you should accompany him to listen! )。
Fifth, analyze the overture of 18 12.
The version I chose to analyze is the version of Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra conducted by Mercury Dorati, which is my favorite version. Of course, I also like the version of RCA eugene ormandy conducting Philadelphia Orchestra. Why didn't I choose the Telarc version that many netizens bought recently? Quite simply, I don't think this version is ideal. Don't scold me, a follower of Liu Hansheng. Maybe you bought a version of Telarc after reading the recommendation of Teacher Liu. Since the interpretation of each version is slightly different, please adjust it yourself (for example, when I say that when I listen to some musical instruments, you may find that the time appears sooner or later when you listen at home. It's not that there is something wrong with your stereo. Maybe it's just that we listen to different versions of records. ), also, before listening, find a picture of the ranking of the orchestra to understand the positioning of the instrument.
The analysis part is based on Yang's Appreciation of World Famous Songs (published by Shanghai Music Publishing House), which is an authoritative version, and many comments in Chinese mainland and Taiwan Province Province are written (stolen) on this basis (except Hong Kong, our record critics are very imaginative, they will make random creations and talk nonsense, and they are ignorant and inaccurate enough, so Hong Kong people have enough material to be teased). If you are used to reading books as thick as dictionaries, you can buy (two dictionaries). If you are afraid of big books, Yang has an Introduction to Symphony Appreciation (published by Shanghai Translation Publishing House), which is an abridged version of the previous book.
This article is mainly aimed at beginners of classical music, so I try not to use audio terms. Please forgive me when I have to. These terms are not difficult to understand. I hope that friends who don't know classical music at all can look up books or use their imagination. Please forgive me if the writing is not professional and accurate enough. (alas! Free lunch, don't scold me for my poor writing! )
The music begins with a huge and slow prologue: this is the melody of an ancient hymn "Lord, Save Your People" (translated as "God Save the People" in Taiwan Province Province) played by viola and cello in six parts (two people in each part), and its peaceful pace symbolizes the peaceful and quiet life of the Russian people. At about (1: 18), woodwind instruments were added to this theme, and the sound was solemn, grand and powerful.
The tension is getting stronger. Put a timpani (1: 53) beside you, and you will hear a rhythm of panic and anxiety in a low voice, which will bring riots and excitement, symbolizing that the invasion of the French army has broken the quiet life of the Russian people. At this time, you can hear a soft and touching theme, like crying, passing through oboe, flute, clarinet and bassoon in turn (2: 46). At around (2: 53) and (3: 0 1), you will hear the sound of drums and cymbals, and the speed of music will start to increase, and the sound will also increase, and the music will enter a small climax.
At about (3: 12), the original anxiety was replaced by an episode describing Russian conscription. You will hear the rapid drums (3: 26). Under the background of George W. snare drum, woodwind instruments and French horn played a theme of summoning ensemble, which was repeated several times, and then there was a short pause (4: 25).
The music at this time is in sharp contrast with the previous music. At this time, the music was extremely fast and began to describe the scene of the decisive battle between the two armies. From the emphasis on stress and syncopation in this theme, it seems that you can hear the sound of swords and shadows. When this theme gradually spread to the whole band and reached its climax, you will hear drums around (5: 02). At around (5: 08), the French horn and cornet played "La Marseillaise" one after another, which was repeatedly presented as a symbol of the French invasion of Russia.
The two melodies gradually eased after colliding with each other (6: 04), followed by two Russian-style themes different from the theme of La Marseillaise. (6: 20) A fluent and vast Russian folk song appeared, telling the Russian people's love for the motherland and their determination to face the invading enemy without fear of violence. Pay attention to the sound of the orchestra playing the triangle at the moment. You should have heard enough overtones. If you can only hear dull timbre, either your record recording is poor or your equipment is poor.
Another theme that appeared at (7: 35) was the Russian wedding song "By the Door", which was first played by flute and clarinet. It has a warm feature. At around (7: 53), you will hear the tambourine, which should be clear. This song fully shows that the Russian people will not lose their exuberant vitality and confidence in affirming their own strength even in times of crisis. Like the Russian melody above, it soothes the tense fighting mood.
The next paragraph (8: 36) is a description of the battle scene. The music shows a new round of fighting. Brass instruments and stringed instruments are intertwined, and percussion instruments symbolize the battle of swords and shadows. At 9: 08, you will hear the sound of beating gongs and drums many times, and the "La Marseillaise" will gradually weaken and disappear in the later period. Its fragments will only accelerate and be intermittent.
(10: 06) There are two familiar Russian-style themes. Pay attention to the triangle. This passage once again emphasized the victory of the Russian people in invading the enemy. (10: 52) You will hear familiar Russian folk songs again. Following the theme of "La Marseillaise" (1 1: 13), the speed of music accelerated, and the first shot appeared at (1 1: 47), followed by five shots, and the music became a stormy downward phrase.
At about (12: 37), it comes to the end of the music and starts with the theme of the introduction hymn. At this time, the whole band and the temporary wind band play solemnly and grandly with thunderous momentum. You will hear the bell, and with the particularly novel wind chime color, it will become more magnificent and become a brilliant victory carol, symbolizing the brilliant ending of the struggle. However, the powerful statement of this hymn is repeatedly interrupted by some quick phrases on the theme of fighting (13: 40), and the reappearance of these musical phrases in the scale reminds people of the past struggle with the enemy.
At last, a solemn and powerful theme sounded. Is it glinka's opera Ivan? The theme of Su Shaning's last chorus "Ode to Glory" is about (13: 52). With the sound of eleven guns and church bells, it was the final victory of the Russian people, and the whole music ended with this ode to joy of victory.
VI. Introduce ten overture versions of 18 12.
(1), mercury 434 36O-2
Dorati's "18 12" overture Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra (now renamed Minnesota Symphony Orchestra) is my first choice. This record has been on the TAS list for many years in a row, and it has been given the highest evaluation of 3 stars with flowers by Penguin CD Guide (Yearbook 97/98), and it has been listed as the first choice of 18 12 overture. Chen Yingguang's CD Bible also recommends this version (unfortunately, his introduction can't be separated from gunfire).
There is no denying that the sound of guns on this record is one of its selling points, and MERCURY's great success lies in its pioneering use of recording technology, adding real guns and church bells to the band's performance. This record was recorded twice by Mercury Company, both by the same conductor and band. Was the first recording in 1954 or in the mono era? The gunfire was recorded at West Point Military Academy from an ancient gun made in the Napoleonic era, and the bell was recorded from the big clock on the campus of Yale University. The second recording was at 1958. At this time, it has entered the stereo era. At 1775, the gun was replaced by a French-made cannon, and the bell was replaced by the bell of the church on the new york River.
MERCURY and TELARC recorded guns, bells and orchestral performances, respectively, and then mixed them. Because of the excellent recording, realistic effect and the shocking effect of real gunfire, this record has become an audition disc for enthusiasts and audio manufacturers. In the production of 1958, three microphones and a three-channel recorder were used for recording, and the recording effect was very advanced at that time. In the vinyl era, this record sold more than 2 million copies, which can be described as the treasure of Mercury.
The current CD version was transcribed from the recording master of 1958. According to the current recording technology, the background noise of this CD is slightly loud (don't worry, I am picky, maybe you will disagree). In fact, what I admire most about this record is not its gun (even if this record doesn't have a real gun, I still think it's first-class). Dorati conducted the Minneapolis Symphony Orchestra with great performance. The overall feeling is smooth, dynamic and meaningful. Commendable mixer, handling the sound effects of guns and church bells very well. He didn't usurp the role of the host, and it was natural for him to play with the orchestra, giving people a sense of harmony. This CD track 2 introduces the recording situation, which is quite interesting.
HMV's current price reduction project is probably around 70 yuan.
(2)、TELARC CD-8054 1
Sorry, from beginning to end, I feel that the overture of "18 12" produced by TELARC is a bit too much. Erich kunzel is not a conductor, and Cincinnati Pop Orchestra is not a world-class orchestra, but this is not what I want to criticize, because I have listened to other tracks conducted by erich kunzel, and it still gives people a vibrant feeling on the whole.
It's a pity that this overture version of 18 12, like some recordings of TELARC, gives me the impression that the overall coordination is poor, the recording is unbalanced, the playing tone is dull, and the level is not clear enough. The only selling point is the powerful gunshot and amazing sound effects, but the gun is not the focus of evaluating an orchestra! I really admire the agent of this record. It's their credit for blowing a poor record into an audition album, alas! Wake up! Hong Kong people.
Of course, this disc is not without its merits. The sound effects of guns it contains are quite amazing. After DSD processing, the background quietness of the record has also improved a lot. Besides, this is the only record of SACD. If you want to listen to sound effects, you need to listen to the sound of cannons. Buy this disc! But if I can only buy one overture of 18 12, this record is obviously not my first choice.
Regular price goods, 100 yuan or so.
(3)、RCA BVCC38 126
Eugene ormandy's command of Philadelphia Orchestra is another option for me. If you haven't heard the names of Ormandi and Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra, obviously, you are not a classical music fan. This version of the recording is one of the most excellent versions I have ever heard. Ormandi's conductor is brilliant, and the orchestra plays very well. You can feel the highest state of the combination of wind music and strings. Listen to the overture of "18 12". Don't miss this emotional version.
Regular price goods, 100 yuan or so.
(4) RCA life stereo 09026-6 1246-2
Fritz Reiner also conducted Chicago Symphony Orchestra (Chicago Symphony Orchestra) very well. The late conductor was rated as one of the top ten conductors in the world by many music critics. His conductor is sharp and accurate, and the sound of this record is smooth. After listening to The Voice of Philadelphia by the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra, how can you miss Chicago Symphony Orchestra's performance? If you have the eugene ormandy version, buy this one, too. It's definitely a pleasure to listen to these two orchestras compete for skills.
Regular price goods, 100 yuan or so.
(5) Philips CD 442 0 1 1-2
How can you listen to Lao Chai if you don't listen to Russian conductors? The version of valery gergiev conducting Kirov Orchestra and Choir is very attractive (1999). Did anyone watch it when he conducted Kirov Opera Orchestra and Choir in Hong Kong? ), the conductor of the former Soviet Union is definitely the ideal interpreter of Tchaikovsky. He conducts passionately and plays with tension. The recording level of the record is extremely high, the timbre is beautiful and the recording is balanced. You have heard the versions of RCA and PHILPS, and you will understand why I criticize TELARC.
Regular price goods, 100 yuan or so.
(6), Dika 443 094-2
This is the version of Detroit Symphony Orchestra conducted by Dorati. After listening to the version of Mercury, maybe you can listen to the version of Dorati. Although this record is a recording of SARS, it belongs to the standard. This CD also includes Tchaikovsky's Italian Fantasy, Slavic March and Hamlet Fantasy Overture.
Low price series, around 55 yuan.
(7), Dika 448 494-2
This is a performance by the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra conducted by zubin mehta. Meta's performance is very infectious, especially the final performance, which is admirable and belongs to the same level. This CD also includes Tchaikovsky's Slavic March and Romeo and Juliet Fantasy.
Low price series, around 55 yuan.
(8) General 469 6 1 1-2
Seiji Ozawa's version of Berlin Philharmonic conducted by Qing Dynasty is not the authoritative version of "18 12" overture, but the timbre is balanced and Ozawa conducted well. In addition to this overture, this CD also contains Chai Wu's symphony. It would be a pity to look down on this CD because the printing is not exquisite enough and few people talk about it.
This series of CDs published all over the world are very cheap, one in 39 yuan, and a little more expensive in other places. You will never regret buying this price. Don't underestimate these low-priced CDs, which are first-class conductors and top orchestras, and are the best choice for beginners of classical music. Beginners buy CDs, don't believe all the advertisements about "King of Diamonds". The contract between the first-class performers and the orchestra is in the hands of big companies. The "King of Diamonds" you bought may be just exaggerated sound effects, and mediocre performance can't improve your music appreciation at all.
Very low price series, the price is 39 yuan.
(9), Hugo HRP 750-2
This CD is conducted by Ye Yongshi of China Central Symphony Orchestra. If you love your country and Hong Kong, you must buy this CD. But frankly speaking, this version still has a long way to go from the level of conductor to orchestra to the world-class level, which is a long distance. Ye Yongshi's command is orderly and lacks emotion. This version of the recording is not ideal. For example, if you listen to the sound of playing triangle iron, it seems that the word "triangle" is missing, and the overtone is insufficient, and it becomes the sound of "striking the iron". However, the previous "art exhibition" was better, so I won back some points.
Hugo regular price series, from 80 yuan to 90 yuan.
( 10)，POLOARTS POLO CLB-86033-2
Vladimir Fedoseyev's version of moscow radio symphony orchestra (moscow radio symphony orchestra) is better than expected. Vladimir Fedosev is not as famous as valery gergiev. Moscow radio symphony orchestra can't compare with Leningrad Philharmonic Orchestra, but you must listen to this version when you have the chance. Russians beat old firewood, and their feelings are very easy to interpret. In addition, this is a Japanese master tape, which uses K2 recording technology, and only needs 35 yuan RMB, which is more than enough for reception. Really, this record is very cheap. Also, you must listen to the second "Andante Like a Song", which is Tchaikovsky's masterpiece.
There are many good record brands in mainland China in recent years, and Pro Art is one of them. Most of the products produced by this studio are master tapes provided by Japanese JVC and produced in China. Many of their records use K2 technology, and their prices are also cheap, which deserves attention.
Parity series, RMB 35 yuan.
If you don't have a clue and want me to introduce you to buy that CD, the following may be your reference:
1. If you like to hear real guns, buy (1) and (2).
2. If you like the overall balance effect, buy (1), (3), (4) and (5).
If you like beautiful recordings, buy items (2), (3), (4) and (5).
Buy (8) and (10) if you want to buy a bargain.
If you have money, buy them all. In Hong Kong, you can find more than ten overture versions of 18 12 at any time.
Are there any other versions? Of course, there are many, many more, but if we continue, Review33 may become Tchaikovsky's website.
Seven. postscript
I'm really sorry. I was going to write this brief introduction to several netizens, but I have been dragging it because of my busy work. On the other hand, I especially like Russian musicians (of course Tchaikovsky is one of them). I have a dozen or twenty versions of the overture of "18 12" alone, and it takes me a lot of time to listen to each record several times. This article actually criticized the comments of several magazines in Hong Kong and Taiwan, but finally decided to delete it so as not to offend people. There is an old saying that when receiving information, you should know how to filter, and don't listen to other people's suggestions, otherwise the emperor will easily catch cold when wearing new clothes, so be careful.
Finally, I want to say that the overture of 18 12 is not Tchaikovsky's best work, and his fantasy overture of Romeo and Juliet is much better than that of 18 12. If you want to know this Russian composer, you should listen to his Symphony No.6 in B minor, Pathetique, and the Symphonies No.4 to No.5 are also worth appreciating. Other orchestral works, such as Piano Concerto No.1 (in B flat minor) and Violin Concerto (in D major), ballet music Swan Lake and Nutcracker, should also be listened to. I recommend it.
However, the overture of "18 12" is really nice and dramatic. Why else would I have so many versions?
This article is sketchy, so I don't have time for in-depth proofreading and revision. Please correct me if there are any mistakes.