The first movement, Struggle for Independence, opens with a reference to a nocturne for piano by the renowned Lithuanian composer and painter Mikalojus Konstantinas ?iurlionis (1875-1911), thematic material from which has been used throughout the composition. The powerful music that follows reflects the resolve and resistance of the Baltic people. A reference to the anthem of the Soviet Union in the lower brass is relentlessly pushed aside as the rest of the band plays the Lithuanian national anthem, ‘Tauti?ka giesm?’ (Lithuania, Our Homeland). The second movement, Decades of Suffering, echoes life under the Soviet Union. The pursuit of independence, culminating in the dramatic symbolism of the Chain of Freedom stretching right across the Baltic states of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia is depicted in the final movement.? The Baltic Way is the Youth Premier Section set test.
Lithuanian Dances - arranged by Kazys Daug?la??????????????????
In ancient times, many of Lithuania’s national celebrations and rituals involved dance, which were given names according to their function. Circular or ring dances (rateliai), games (?aidimai) and paired dances (?okiai) were performed for parties and celebrations, as were polyphonic singing dances (Sutartini? ?okiai), which paired specific dance steps with archaic songs. Some became so elaborate that they are also known as “games”. In the late 19th century and early 20th century game dances were gradually replaced by ring dances. Today folk dances usually go hand in hand with folk songs and are performed on stage, but originally they