Program note:

 

"Jerlarem," meaning "my songs" in Tatar is deeply inspired by the Tatar folk songs and traditions I grew up with. As a Tatar, much of my childhood was spent with my grandmother who was a keeper of these folk music traditions, influencing and contributing greatly to my understanding and love for these musical traditions.

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In its complete form, Jerlarem consists of five movements (full version is linked here). This shortened version contains a selection of three. 

 

The first movement, Tughan tel (meaning "native language"), is based on a Tatar folk song with lyrics by Gabdulla Tukay. This movement opens with the folk melody in its original form which then distorts and fragments, acquiring gnarled and grinding sounds, symbolizing the gradual loss of the Tatar language, especially among younger generations.

 

The next movement, Alli-Balli, is a lullaby evoking a realm of sweet yet strange dreams and images. The vocal part reflects sounds that are often used in Tatar culture to soothe or entertain children, creating a meditative and timeless atmosphere.

 

The final movement, Anisa, is a lively arrangement of a Tatar dance song. It depicts a village gathering where young people dance and enjoy apples and dried fruits, capturing the joy of communal festivity.

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