Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov (1844–1908) was an iconic Russian composer, and a member of the group of composers known as "The Mighty Handful" or "The Five." His work is celebrated for its rich use of colour and expert orchestration, which was subject to influence by Russian folk music and fairy tales. Born in Tikhvin, Russia, Rimsky-Korsakov showed early musical talent but initially pursued a career in the navy. It wasn't long before his passion for music took precedence, and he began composing and eventually became a professor at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory.

As an educator, Rimsky-Korsakov tutored some of Russia's most notable future composers, including Igor Stravinsky and Sergei Prokofiev, influencing subsequent generations. His compositional output includes operas, symphonies, and chamber works, but he is most famous for symphonic works such as "Scheherazade, Op. 35," which vividly depicts the tales of the Arabian Nights through its lush and evocative orchestration. His other significant works involve "Capriccio Espagnol" and the "Russian Easter Festival Overture," both notable for their rich orchestral textures and vivid storytelling. Rimsky-Korsakov's legacy in music extends beyond his compositions; he was a leading figure in ballet music and significantly impacted the standardization of Russian music theory and education.

Genres

Classical

Orchestra

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Seiji Ozawa & Friends - Classical Variations

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Album - 75 Tracks - Released March 20, 2025