What became of the so-called "One Hit Wonder"? This might be the underlying truth of this piece. However, this is not meant ironically, but rather an expression of deep gratitude for having even one such piece, and for being one of the many "One Hit Wonders" myself.

 The original was music for the Kewpie Tarako Pasta Sauce commercial (2004), composed with Vivaldi's preferred chord progressions and Russian folk songs in mind. Based on this commercial music, which became unexpectedly popular, I considered whether a distinct, re-envisioned independent work could be created. It seems to be a reverse parallel to Lev Knipper (1898-1974), where what was believed to be a Russian folk song was in fact part of a symphony.

 This musical idea had the opportunity to be set to English lyrics by Mr. Ron Mael of the cult rock band Sparks. The lyrics tell the story of lovers, Natasha, who works to falsify the resumes of important figures, and Sergei, a guard at Lenin's Mausoleum. The title of this piece is Volga Nights.