Conductor, E. GODFREY BROWN
EVELYN GIBB (soprano)
Borodin's Prince Igor ranks among the finest of operas on national subjects. The story has been called ' The King Arthur ' legend of Russia ; it is based on twelfth-century chronicles compiled by a monk, and it is difficult to know how far they are legend and how far real history. The overture begins with a slow movement, before the vigorous main theme makes its appearance. Its impetuosity gives way to a much quieter second tune, played first as a horn solo and though other tunes appear, notably on the basses, it is the first and its energetic rhythm which dominate most of the Overture.
Jan Blockx , a Belgian composer who died in 1912, was Director of Antwero Conservatoire. Outstanding among his compositions in all forms were his operas, two at least of which became widely known.