Contrasts 31. Seasons: Reflections

Performers:

• Nazarii Pylatyuk, violin
• Chamber Orchestra Akademia
• Ihor Pylatyuk, artistic director and conductor
• Arthur Mykytka, director and concertmaster

Program:

• Usein Bekirov (UA). Seasons (2025), world premiere. Dedicated to Nazarii Pylatiuk

Moderator: Polina Kordovska

Seasons by Usein Bekirov is a new large-scale work by the Ukrainian Crimean Tatar composer, pianist, and multiple Grammy nominee. Its world premiere will be presented in collaboration with the Lviv Chamber Orchestra Akademia, a long-standing participant of the festival.

This canonical cycle, reimagined, becomes a musical reflection not only on the changing of natural seasons but also on the flow of human life. Its musical language is woven from three strands: classical tradition, embodying continuity; jazz, offering freedom and unpredictability; and Crimean Tatar folklore, carrying the voice of Bekirov’s people.

“For me, Seasons is a journey through time and at the same time a journey inward. Each movement reflects the shift of light, mood, and perception of the world. It is a path from contemporary rhythms to ancient melodies of the steppe. Thanks to improvisation, the work is born anew each time, alive and unique. It brings together the freedom of jazz improvisation, the deep intonations of Crimean Tatar folklore, and the sensitivity of classical tradition. This encounter creates a space where nature and humanity mirror one another. I want the listener to hear not only the rhythm of the seasons in these sounds, but also the voice of memory guiding us through life. I dedicate this work to Nazarii Pylatyuk — a maestro who generously shares his energy and love for music.”
— Usein Bekirov

Mariia Levkovych