So my new obsession is a Ukrainian-born musician, Alexander Hrustevich, who plays a type of chromatic Russian accordion called a Bayan. He plays incredible transcriptions of classical pieces, replicating the parts of an entire orchestra with just two hands. If you’re familiar with Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, you know the Presto for Summer is one of the most challenging parts. Listen to this, it’s just a bit under three minutes.
Here’s the 14 minute version which is beautiful to hear the dynamic range that’s possible.
I’ve always loved the sound of a big pipe organ and the resonance and feel of the bayan. It is really quite remarkable, and it’s been very enjoyable having a playlist of Alexander’s music in the background as I work. This Bach-Fantasia and Fugue in G minor BWV 542 is also quite good.
My 42nd birthday is tomorrow! Working on a post for y’all.