Sergei Rachmaninoff was one of the most celebrated pianists of his generation and one of the most
distinguished composers for his instrument. Rachmaninoff's song Vesseniya Vody is a joyful paean to the dawn of
spring and exemplifies the composer's signature virtuosic treatment for the piano. The tempestuous nature of the
accompaniment depicts the rushing waters that are the heralds of spring, born from the thawing ice and melting
snow as the vocal line revels in announcing the rebirth of the world

The fields are still covered with white snow.
But the streams are already rolling in a spring mood,
Running and awakening the sleepy shore,
Running and gliterring and announcing loudly.
They are announcing loudly to every corner:
"Spring is coming, Spring is coming!
We are the messengers of young Spring,
She has sent us to come forward,
Spring is coming, Spring is coming!
And the quiet, warm May days
Follow her, merrily crowded
Into the rosy, bright dancing circle."