The Soviet musical establishment considered Kabalevsky a "dream composer," as his compositions fit the prescribed formula for proper Russian music: bright, straightforward, folk-based works which...

The Soviet musical establishment considered Kabalevsky a "dream composer," as his compositions fit the prescribed formula for proper Russian music: bright, straightforward, folk-based works which made few demands on the listener's intellect. Still, his gifts as a melodist and orchestrator made him immensely popular in his time. This re-release offers some of his finest works, including the Romeo and Juliet symphonic suite.