Concerto for Clarinet and Orchestra - "Alkonost" (2025)

The Alkonost for solo clarinet

The Alkonost is a mythical creature from Slavic folklore, depicted as a bird with the upper body of a woman, who brings joy and removes sorrow to those who hear her song.

This work depicts the solo clarinet as this bright, arial figure, warming the hearts of those who listen.

I. Echoes in the Canopy Fluttery, dreamy exchanges of quick melodic chirps in the Alkonost’s vibrant canopy, punctuated by her steadily descending motif — a symbol of serenity and peace.

II. When She Sings, the Storm Stills A dissonant, eerie wash of sound depicts a restless storm that, when the Alkonost sings, opens into a delicate stream of chords.

III. Masquerade A jagged waltz — a dance of sly humour with slipped-in gags, off-balance and restless like an uncomfortable ball.

IV. Aria – Birdsong The “cadenza” of the piece, imitating birdsong in free, expressive flight.

V. The Alkonost Takes Flight A cinematic drive to the end, building layers and revealing the Alkonost’s incredible stamina and strength.