Dedicated to the father of the to symphonic poem Franz Liszt, Borodin's In the Steppes of Central Asia is a musical depiction of a caravan traveling through the steppe lands of the Caucasus under the protection of Russian troops. The premiere took place in St. Petersburg on April 20, 1880 with the Orchestra of the Russian opera under the baton of Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. The work begins quietly and gradually leads to the climax with the two major themes, Russian and Asia being played simultaneously. The work ends with fragments of the themes fading away in the distance as the caravan disappears. This newly engraved edition prepared by Richard W. Sargeant, Jr. showcases this brilliant work for the enjoyment of professionals and amateurs alike.
