Odyssey Rhapsody for Violin and Orchestra
Lora Kvint  (b. 1953)

THE STORY

Lora Kvint, one of the most celebrated Soviet-born composers, is known for her significant contributions to symphonic repertoire, musical theater, opera, film, and TV. Her works, including the polystylist opera Giordano, the musical The Count of Monte Cristo, and the musical drama Pomegranate Bracelet, have received critical acclaim for their innovative approaches and emotional depth.

One of her most notable recent compositions is the oratorio La Corrida (Bullfight Passions), inspired by the poetry of Yevgeny Yevtushenko, a celebrated Russian poet and dissident who resided in Tulsa, Oklahoma until his death in 2017.

These performances mark the World Premiere of Kvint’s latest work for violin and orchestra, Odyssey Rhapsody—a piece specially composed for her son, violinist Philippe Quint.

When Lora was six, her parents took her to the Hermitage Museum for the first time, where she immediately fell in love with ancient sculptures. She even dreamt of becoming an archaeologist. Her favorite book was Myths of Ancient Greece, that captivated young Lora’s attention.

In Odyssey Rhapsody, Kvint’s music vividly brings to life the epic journey of King Odysseus: his decision to go to war with the Trojans, the pleas of his devoted wife Penelope, the turbulent seas and storms, the encounter with the enchanting yet perilous sirens, and the triumphant return and celebration of salvation—all depicted with a richness that captures the hero’s cunning and resilience.

INSTRUMENTATION

Solo violin; two flutes, two oboes, two clarinets, two bassoons, four horns, two trumpets, three trombones, tuba, timpani, percussion, harp, strings