The ‘Naughty Limericks’ (Concerto for Orchestra No. 1) from Russian composer Rodion Shchedrin creates striking impressions. This one-movement piece is not a ‘Concerto’ in the ‘Bartokian’ sense. ‘Naughty Limericks’ lives up to its title, with a scampering pace and satirical harmonies strongly reminiscent of Shostakovich in his ironic mode, and to a lesser extent of Prokofiev. ‘Naughty Limericks’ is an imprecise translation of Shchedrin’s title – but it captures the concerto irreverent zest. It’s a brilliantly composed work which is well worth of concert exposure.
Publisher: → Baton Music
Demo score: → Naughty Limericks