Mussorgsky’s masterpiece. Popular classical music.
We’ll introduce masterpieces by Modest Mussorgsky, famous for Pictures at an Exhibition and Night on Bald Mountain (St.
John’s Eve on the Bare Mountain).
Isn’t Pictures at an Exhibition by Ravel?
Many people may say they’ve heard Night on Bald Mountain, but the original is of course by Mussorgsky; it became famous through performances of various arrangements.
Contrary to what you might expect, Mussorgsky actually wrote relatively few standalone orchestral pieces, leaving many songs and piano works instead.
I want you to get to know Mussorgsky’s original music, so this time I’ll be introducing some of his masterworks.
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Mussorgsky’s masterpieces. Popular classical music (1–10)
Meditation – Album Leaf in D minor (Meditation – Feuillet d’album d minor)Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky
This piece is characterized by delicate emotional expression and a profound exploration of the inner self.
Its gentle melody in D minor creates a quiet, meditative atmosphere that resonates deeply with listeners.
Moving at a slow tempo, the music seems to mirror the composer’s state of mind.
Its simple yet emotionally rich expression is captivating, evoking a wide range of feelings with the piano alone.
It’s recommended for those seeking an introspective moment or wishing to savor deep musical expression.
Composed in 1880, this work still captivates many hearts to this day and refuses to let go.
Spinning Woman (1871)Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky
A serene masterpiece by the Russian composer Modest Mussorgsky.
This piece depicts the labor of a spinner, characterized by its lively rhythm and delicate melody.
While primarily set in 9/8 time, it interweaves passages in 12/8 to express the repetitive motion of spinning and the subtle emotional fluctuations within it.
Premiered in Saint Petersburg in 1872, it had a certain impact on the music scene of the time.
Skillfully portraying the spinner’s daily work and the emotions behind it, this work is recommended for those interested in Russian folk music or who enjoy nuanced musical expression.
Promenade I from the suite ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky
Promenade, from the suite Pictures at an Exhibition.
Within Pictures at an Exhibition, it is a famous piece alongside The Great Gate of Kyiv.
Modest Mussorgsky composed this piece to depict his walk through a memorial exhibition of works by his friend Viktor Hartmann.
Although the title refers to ten paintings, there are five Promenades, and altogether the suite comprises about sixteen pieces.
The most famous is the first Promenade that opens the suite, but if you listen and compare them, you can savor how the main theme is transformed in various ways and how the mood shifts.
In the fourth Promenade, the music turns to the minor key, and you can sense Mussorgsky’s grief for his close friend Hartmann.
I hope you will listen to each of the Promenades.
Masterpieces by Mussorgsky: Popular classical music (11–20)
From the suite ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’: The Hut on Fowl’s Legs (Baba-Yaga)Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky
It’s a masterpiece that resonates with the soul of Russian music by Modest Mussorgsky.
Vividly depicting the hut of the terrifying witch Baba Yaga, it is truly a painting in sound.
Its fierce rhythms and unstable harmonies stir an eerie unease and tension in the listener’s heart.
Composed in 1874, inspired by a memorial exhibition of works by Mussorgsky’s friend, the painter Viktor Hartmann, this piece was an innovative attempt to express Russian folklore through music.
It’s a wonderful track that lets you experience the art of storytelling in music.
March: Recapture of KarsModest Petrovich Mussorgsky
It is an orchestral work known as one of Modest Mussorgsky’s representative pieces.
This festive march celebrates the military victories of the Russian Empire, opening with a powerful fanfare.
In the middle section, an Oriental-style melody appears, musically depicting the conflict between Russia and Turkey.
Premiered in October 1878, it was a great success.
Incorporating elements of Russian folk music, its majestic character leaves a deep impression on listeners.
It’s a recommended piece not only for those interested in classical music but also for fans of the military and history.
Jesus Navi (Joshua)Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky
A choral piece based on a biblical story, it depicts Joshua’s victory in the conquest of Canaan.
Featuring powerful chorus and piano accompaniment, it expresses the worldview of the Bible through music.
Composed between 1874 and 1877, it reflects Modest Mussorgsky’s religious convictions.
The lyrics, imbued with faith in God and the courage of battle, resonate deeply with listeners.
Elements of traditional Russian music are also incorporated, adding an appealing folk color to the piece.
It is recommended for those interested in sacred music and choral works, and for anyone who wishes to experience biblical narratives through music.
Symphonic Interlude in the Classical StyleModest Petrovich Mussorgsky
While incorporating classical styles, this piece pursues a distinctive musical expression.
It is characterized by the rich, weighty sonority of the orchestra, with shaded, Mussorgsky-esque melodies woven into a classical form.
The progression from a quiet introduction to a steadily mounting sense of elation captivates the listener and won’t let go.
Completed in 1867, the work can be regarded as an important piece that demonstrates Mussorgsky’s spirit of musical exploration.
It is recommended for those who wish to become familiar with classical music or who are interested in Russian music.
It also offers many points of interest for listeners who are curious about musical form and structure.