Svetlanov had a profound attachment to the traditions of the homeland of the corrida, to the origins and ideals of its national art. His fascination with the distinct character of Spanish culture is reflected in his music.
“The Scenes of Spain” (ru : “Kartiny Ispanii”) struck me as vivid. It truly conveys a southern color, employs the appropriate instruments, and in some ways recalls the instrumentation of de Falla, Albéniz, and Granados.”
Vasily Petrenko, conductor