One of the most important works of Tischenko is his ballet Yaroslavna, inspired by The Tale of Igor’s Campaign: this touchstone of Russian literature dates from the 12th century, and has always attracted artists in all genres since its recovery in the early 19th century. The Tale was the basis of one of the greatest Russian operas, Prince Igor by Alexander Porfirievich Borodin.
In the music of Yaroslavna we see intertwining main lines extending back through all the works of the composer. It is respectful connection to the past and the talent of plunging into its secrets. Furthermore, it testifies to Tischenko’s deep interest in Russian folklore as an inexhaustible source of ideas in music. The ballet’s style also bears witness to Tischenko’s long-standing obsession with Oriental music, and primarily with the tradition of medieval Japanese gagaku music. This ballet, like the best symphonies of Tischenko, is an emotional vision of the world, explicit, organically acute and dramatic.
