Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov

Born in Tikhvin in 1844, Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov first trained for a naval career before fully turning to music. He became one of the leading figures in the group of Russian composers often called "The Five," who wanted to create a distinctly national style of classical music.

Over time, he became famous not only as a composer but also as a teacher and master orchestrator. He taught at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory and influenced many younger composers, while also revising and preparing works by fellow Russian musicians.

Rimsky-Korsakov is especially remembered for his gift for musical color. Works such as Scheherazade, The Golden Cockerel, and Sadko show his love of folklore, fantasy, and richly detailed orchestral writing. He died in 1908, but his music remains a cornerstone of the Russian repertory.