Sergei Prokofiev’s, one of the 20th-century most outstanding composers, showcased his mastery and talent in various genres – from opera, ballet and symphonies to chamber opuses, music for films, children and drama performances as well as many virtuoso piano compositions. In his music, Prokofiev combined explorations of composers of classical era and those who were active at the beginning of the 20th century. His music is characterized by theatricality, mocking irony and sarcasm.

Overture on Hebrew Themes for clarinet, piano and string quartet is considered to be a gem of Prokofiev’s chamber music oeuvre. The composition was written at the request of fellow students at the St. Petersburg Conservatory, who formed the Jewish music ensemble Zimro. In this overture, traditional intonations of Jewish folklore alternate with Prokofiev’s bright and individual manner. The composition captivates with its fast-paced rhythm, expressive solo segments, and enchanting lyrical episodes. The whole work is permeated by melancholic joy – evoking a sense of a musical expression of the metaphor “smile through tears”.

Prokofiev’s characteristic Overture on Hebrew Themes is performed by clarinettist Vytautas Giedraitis, pianist Simona Zajančauskaitė and Čiurlionis Quartet.