There are two types of music pieces that composers create.

 

The first type is born from a conscious, rational decision — written for a specific project or purpose — and shaped through the composer’s knowledge, skill, and aesthetic sensibility.

 

The second type, by contrast, seems to emerge on its own — from an irrational spark, a random mistake, a single chord, or a fleeting melodic line that gradually unfolds into a complete musical entity. This kind of piece appears to use the composer as a vessel, channeling their craft and intuition to bring itself into being.

 

PLA:CH belongs to this second kind of work. Originally written as a solo guitar piece in early 2020, it was left to “sit” for three years before finding its full orchestral form and being produced in 2023. The title comes from the Slavic word “плач” — meaning cry, weep, lament. Looking back, I now recognize it as a messenger piece — one that somehow anticipated and embodied the human suffering, disruption, and confusion that have since shaken our world.

 

Composed, orchestrated, and produced by Oleg Smirnov at IDIOM Music Productions

 

Featuring: Strings of the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Riverside Philharmonic.

Recorded at: The Village Studios, Los Angeles.

Mixed by: Yan Perchuk, The Next Level Productions, Los Angeles.

Mastered by: Peter Hewitt-Dutton, The Bakery Studios, Los Angeles.

 

© Oleg Smirnov, 2023