Classical Suite is a unique work in Ihor Shamo's legacy, as it is his only cycle related to classical or baroque music; it is a sharp vision of "early music." Prelude, Courante, and Gigue are inspired by French music of the 17th and 18th centuries, a kind of homage to Rameau. The Minuet and the Gavotte reveal a very subtle sense of humor without ever becoming vulgar, with very classical harmonies clashing with dissonances and chords far apart according to the circle of fifths. Aria, with its noble melody unfolding over several octaves, supported by rich and suave harmonies, can evoke the image of the old city of Kyiv. Like all of Ihor Shamo's works, this cycle is very refined musically and pianistically.
nl 
