Kabalevsky: 6 Preludes and Fugues, Op. 61 Complete | Sofia Sacco (Piano) | ULTRA HD

D. Kabalevsky’s Six Preludes and Fugues, Op. 61 is a remarkably little-known work, even within his piano music. Today, Kabalevsky is probably best known for his music for children and young performers, while many of his larger and more serious piano works are rarely heard. Op. 61 deserves to be rediscovered—not just as educational repertoire, but as an imaginative and worthwhile set of preludes and fugues in its own right. Kabalevsky was very committed to music education. As a composer, teacher and pedagogue, he wanted young musicians to encounter serious musical ideas without losing their sense of imagination, character and expression. This comes through clearly in Op. 61. The technical demands of counterpoint and fugue are combined with simple but vivid images and stories. 00:00 I. A Summer Morning in a Lawn (Fugue 01:11) 03:43 II. Becoming a Young Pioneer (Fugue 04:39) 05:40 III. An Evening Song Beyond the River (Fugue 06:42) 09:24 IV. In the Young Pioneer Camp (Fugue 10:15) 11:26 V. A Story About a Hero (Fugue 13:13) 16:44 VI. Feast of Labour (Fugue 18:06) The six pairs were written in 1958–59, and Kabalevsky wrote his own programme notes, speaking directly to the young performers. I. A Summer Morning in a Lawn A peaceful summer morning slowly comes to life. The quiet landscape begins to awaken, with different sounds and movements gradually appearing. II. Becoming a Young Pioneer The Prelude, A Serious Conversation, has a solemn and serious character, reflecting the importance of the occasion. The Fugue, Celebration, is much more lively, expressing the excitement and happiness of the young Pioneers. III. An Evening Song Beyond the River A distant song can be heard from across the river. It slowly comes closer and becomes more intense, before gradually disappearing again into the evening silence. IV. In the Young Pioneer Camp This pair brings the atmosphere of the camp to life, with songs, games, movement and the energy of young people. V. A Story About a Hero This is the most serious and dramatic piece in the set. Kabalevsky was inspired by a visit to Artek, where he saw a monument to an unknown sailor who had died defending Crimea during the Great Patriotic War. The Prelude reflects the young hero and his fate. After a moment of silence, the Fugue becomes the story of the hero, told by a Pioneer leader. VI. Feast of Labour The final pair depicts a Komsomol work day, with young people working together voluntarily on a bright day. The music has a strong sense of energy, enthusiasm and determination. A Fly On The Wall project. fotw.london Live recorded at the Royal Academy of Music, London, 20 July 2026