Programme notes:

Tereza Jaďuďová (b. 2001)
3 Romances, Op. 40
Written in 2020

Continuing the thread of Russian impressions… moments before the onset of the pandemic, Jaďuďová’s 3 Romances, Op. 40, set poetry by Alexander Pushkin and Mikhail Kuzmin for bass and piano. The cycle, written for bass Peter Mikuláš, combines the expressive gravitas of the bass voice with intimate piano textures, creating a mood of quiet reflection and nuanced drama.

No. 1 – Элегия (Elegy)
Alexander Pushkin
Marked Grave, this opening Romance sets Pushkin’s introspective text with dark-hued lyricism. Long vocal lines and restrained piano accompaniment capture a mood of sober contemplation and emotional depth.

No. 2 – Муза (The Muse)
Mikhail Kuzmin
An Andantino of lighter texture, Kuzmin’s poem is treated with a graceful, almost elusive melodic line. The piano’s flowing motion mirrors the Muse’s fleeting presence, while the vocal phrasing retains an understated elegance.

No. 3 – Желание (Desire)
Alexander Pushkin
Closing with Andante tranquillo, Pushkin’s poem is set in a tone of calm intensity. The bass line unfolds with expressive lyricism, supported by a transparent, gently shifting accompaniment, ending the cycle in a quiet, introspective mood.