Three Romances for Viola, Strings, and Harp

Ateş Orga stated that Three Romances are an affectionate character portrayal of Eleonora Turovsky (1939–2012)[1] to whom the composition is dedicated and was written as a birthday gift.

We could see it partly through the atmosphere reminiscent of Mahler's Fifth Symphony's Adagietto and also through the incorporation of expressive long suspensions within the opening motif of the primary theme.

According to Keith Horner the notable leap of a seventh in this motif is inspired by one of the themes found in the final movement of Shostakovich's Fourth Symphony.

Carlos Maria Solare of The Strad wrote: "Three Romances for viola, strings and harp creates a rustling accompaniment for the soloist to unfold its carefree song over".

[11] Ateş Orga of ClassicalSource.com wrote: "The Three Romances for viola and strings with harp obbligato – a musical portrait of the violinist Eleonora Turovsky – ravish at every turn".

composer Airat Ichmouratov and violist Elvira Misbakhova in London, May 2022.
A.Ichmouratov, Three Viola Romances Op.22, III mv. mm 11-13. Example of 'Fate' motif
'Fate' motif
Example of 'Fate' motif in Three Viola Romances III mv. mm 11-13.
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composer Airat Ichmouratov with violinist Eleonora Turovsky (to whom Three Romances for Viola, Strings, and Harp Op.22 are dedicated) and her husband, Canadian cellist and conductor Yuli Turovsky , summer 2001