Dance of the Cossacks

Although this dance is energetic, it mustn’t begin too quickly, to allow for the accelerando in the final section. However, when the ensemble is confident with the rhythms, a more adventurous tempo could be attempted. The off-beats in the 2nd violins and violas need to be short and precise and the bass line very solid. The conductor can decide whether the ensemble uses pizzicato or col legno at bar 21. It is vital that each section counts very carefully from bar 29. The final bars should be exciting, but remain controlled.