Adagio for String Orchestra

Composer Emil Tabakov is a master of large symphonic forms. His 11 symphonies, orchestral pieces, and instrumental concertos for various instruments are among the most significant phenomena in contemporary Bulgarian music. Within the scope of the symphonic concept, he unfolds a multi-layered field of states, energies, images, and suggestions with the entire spectrum of timbral and expressive possibilities of the orchestra, with broad dramaturgy and a continuous flow of powerful instrumental narrative. Among his monumental works in recent years, Tabakov has also created several pieces in concentrated smaller forms. These include the deeply contemplative Vocalise for solo viola and mixed choir from 2012 (reworked in 2016 for viola and string orchestra especially for Yuri Bashmet and the Moscow Soloists ensemble) and Adagio for mixed choir and vibraphone (2016). On July 17^th , 2016, in the village of Banya, where he usually writes his music in the summer, he completed the score for Adagio for string orchestra. "I rarely write in such small forms," says the composer. "I mainly imagine Adagio for string orchestra. Like the well-known Adagios by Albinoni, Mahler's Fifth Symphony, Barber. The string orchestra has great possibilities. Unlike wind instruments, it allows for more interesting technical means to be used. The first piece I wrote at the age of 14 was Two Variations for String Orchestra and Timpani, which I conducted at the premiere at the age of 17 with the Ruse Philharmonic Orchestra. As a student at the Music School, I formed a chamber string orchestra with which we gave concerts. Later, as conductor of the Sofia Soloists, I became more familiar with the specifics of this type of ensemble, and I dedicated a Concerto for 15 Strings to the ensemble and also made transcriptions. But this Adagio for string orchestra is a completely different piece. It is slow, quiet, lyrical, in tune with the mood I was in at the time. Tabakov does not like to publicize his musical messages, preferring his works to resonate freely, emotionally and mentally, in the listener's mind. The piece is built on two themes, with a solo violin, solo violas and cellos. In the graphic transparency of the sonorous minor chord texture, the motivic development of the thematic material gradually unfolds and dynamizes the form. The premiere of Adagio for string orchestra will take place on March 1, 2019, in Varna with the State Opera Varna conducted by the composer.