A Recital of his own Music
Assisted by Tatiana Makushina

A Russian composer of German descent, Medtner began his career as solo pianist and for a time was Professor of Pianoforte at the Conservatoire in his native city of Moscow. For some years he has devoted himself entirely to composition, cultivating a strongly individual style which is none the less based on the classical models. His songs are notable largely for their interesting accompaniments. His partiality for the voice is shown in an unusual way in his Sonata-Vocalise, broadcast two years ago, in which the voice sings no words, but is merely used as one of the instruments. For tho songs to be sung in Russian this afternoon, the composer has furnished synopses.

(a) Meerestille.
Deadly calm is spreading over the sea, and danger is anticipated by the sailor.

(b) Gluckliche Fahrt.
A ship's voyage has been hindered by fogs and absence of wind. Now a fair wind arises and the ship is swiftly moving towards welcome land.

(c) Elfenliedchen.
A song of the elves, who come out in the woods at midnight to dance and sing merrily.

(d) Praeludium.
All things, everlastingly recurring, complete a circle. Then from all around springs joy and all are at one in peace with God.

(e) Life's Waggon.
Life is compared to a waggon, steadily driven by wise old Time. At dawn the passenger eagerly boards the waggon and urges the driver to make haste. At noon he loses courage and is shaken and fears the dangers of the road. But in the evening he is used to the trail and wearily continues the journey to the end, whilst Time spurs on his steed.