RECORDINGS

‘Dilmano, Dilbero’ Variations, op. 2 is one of the most

representative pieces in the Bulgarian classical music. Composed in 1954 by Alexander Vladigeroff, it consists nine

variations based on a folk song theme with the same title. Each variation has a different

character and originality. The compound tempo changes create original effects and special

rhythmic pulses which are typical for the Bulgarian folk dances. The composition was

awarded a first prize on the fifth International composition competition in Warsaw in 1955.

Immediately after the completion of his 24 preludes cycle, Rachmaninoff turned his attention

to the piano etude genre. Between 1911 and 1817 he wrote two sets of etudes, op. 33 and 39,

under the title of Étude – Tableaux. The second book, op. 39,

according to Rachmaninoff himself, was written between August and Novemeber 1916 along

with his six songs op. 38. These compositions were less predictable than his

Preludes and often exhibit abrupt changes in the mood, an example of which is Étude –

Tableau op. 39, No 1 in c minor.