Nikolai Tcherepnin

Nikolai Tcherepnin was a fascinating Russian composer and conductor who left his mark on the late Romantic and early 20th-century music scene. Born in 1873, he studied under the legendary Rimsky-Korsakov and became known for his lush, colorful orchestral works that often blended Russian romanticism with French impressionist flair. Tcherepnin was deeply involved in Sergei Diaghilev’s groundbreaking Ballets Russes, composing pieces like *Le Pavillon d’Armide* (featured in your list!), which helped define the company’s early aesthetic. His music often wove in fairy-tale themes and exotic influences, as heard in works like *Japanese Lyrics* and *Oceanic Suite* – perfect examples of his knack for storytelling through sound.

Beyond composing, Tcherepnin was a respected teacher and mentor, even founding the first Russian conservatory in Constantinople (now Istanbul) after fleeing the Russian Revolution. His legacy also lives on through his son, Alexander Tcherepnin, who became a celebrated composer himself. Whether you’re diving into his piano miniatures or grand ballet scores, Nikolai’s music feels like stepping into a vividly painted world of magic and drama. Fun fact: His *Narcisse et Echo* isn’t just a beautiful tone poem – it’s a total mood, blending mythological storytelling with shimmering orchestration!

Genres

Classical

Contemporary Classical

Chamber Music

Romantic Music

Orchestral Music

Impressionism

Ballet

Symphonic Music

Latest Release

Tcherepnin: Prelude to "La princesse lointaine", Op. 4 & Narcisse et Echo, Op. 40

Nikolai Tcherepnin•

Bamberg Symphony•

Łukasz Borowicz

Album - 32 Tracks - Released June 5, 2020