Kees Vlak dedicates the rhapsody "Israel Shalom" to the modern Israeli state. He uses folkloristic elements and creates a new piece of music.

The work begins with impressions from Purim which commemorates the deliverance of the Persian Jews by Esther. The happy atmosphere reminds us of carnival with street parades and colorful costumes. The music cannot deny essential influences from Eastern Europe, e.g. from Russia, Poland, Hungary and Bulgaria, but Gypsy and dance music is heard too.

Som...