Mussorgsky’s masterpiece. Popular classical music.

In the Village in D major (Au village D-Dur)Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky

Mussorgsky “In a Village”

This beloved piano solo captivates with a bright, light melody and music that seems to depict nature.

Infused with the composer’s affection for their homeland, it evokes a laid-back countryside atmosphere for the listener.

Composed around 1880, the piece clearly reflects the characteristics of Russian music that incorporates elements of folk traditions.

A gem that paints pastoral scenery in sound, it is recommended for anyone interested in Russian nature and culture.

It’s also suitable for beginners to classical music and perfect for times when you want to feel calm and at ease.

Overture to the Opera ‘The Fair at Sorochyntsi’Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky

La foire de Sorotschiniski ouverture Modeste Moussorgski Myung-Whun Chung

This is a grand overture by Modest Mussorgsky, influenced by Russian folk songs.

Set in a Ukrainian village festival, it vividly portrays a bustling marketplace and the lives of the villagers.

The powerful rhythms of the trumpets and timpani are striking, and its inventive musical expression skillfully incorporates elements of folk music.

Premiered in March 1911, the work is regarded as an important piece that demonstrates the innovative spirit of Russian music.

It is recommended for those interested in classical music or wishing to experience the essence of Russian folk traditions.

From the suite ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’, Catacombs (Roman Tombs)Modest Petrovich Mussorgsky

Suite 'Pictures at an Exhibition': Catacombs (Roman Tombs)

A masterpiece that brilliantly portrays Russian national character and the dark atmosphere of a cemetery.

The ringing piano tones evoke the mysterious space of the catacombs.

Amid silence and heaviness, glimmers of hope can be glimpsed, and the music’s deeply philosophical character is captivating.

Composed in 1874, this piece is said to have been inspired by paintings by the composer’s friend, the artist Hartmann.

Its performance, rich in expressive power that makes full use of piano virtuosity, fires the listener’s imagination.

Highly recommended for those who want to savor the profundity of classical music or immerse themselves in scenes depicted through sound.

Bidlo, from the suite Pictures at an ExhibitionModest Petrovich Mussorgsky

Yuri Botnari, MPO. M.Mussorgsky: “Pictures at an Exhibition” – Bydlo.

From the suite Pictures at an Exhibition: Bydło (The Oxcart).

Bydło is Polish for “oxcart,” but it also carries the meaning of “people oppressed (like cattle).” After the piece was composed and titled, there are marks suggesting the title was later scraped with a knife.

When Vladimir Stasov, the Russian art critic who organized Hartmann’s posthumous exhibition that inspired the work, asked Modest Mussorgsky about it, he reportedly replied, “Among us, let’s call it ‘The Oxcart.’” In fact, among Hartmann’s paintings there is a work titled “Polish Uprising,” which has led to the inference that the title bears a double meaning.

In Ravel’s famous orchestration, the movement begins pianissimo, whereas in the original it often starts with a more forceful, weighty character, giving a different impression.

In Ravel’s version there is a tuba solo—remarkable for being in a very high register for the instrument—and it’s a must-hear.

Gnome, from the suite Pictures at an ExhibitionModest Petrovich Mussorgsky

Pictures at an Exhibition: Gnomus (part 2)

This is “Gnomus” (The Gnome) from the suite Pictures at an Exhibition.

In the suite, it appears as the second piece, but in the set of paintings it corresponds to the first title.

The name Gnomus refers to an earth spirit or fairy—a dwarf-like being that mainly lives underground and is said to look like an old man.

While the word “gnome” might evoke a cute image, this particular gnome is set in the underworld, and the musical character is therefore very heavy.

If you search for images, you can see the painting as it was actually displayed, but you’ll probably find it quite different from what you imagined.

Try looking up the original painting once—you’ll see why the music sounds the way it does.

From the suite ‘Pictures at an Exhibition’: Addressing the dead with dead wordsModest Petrovich Mussorgsky

Suite 'Pictures at an Exhibition': Addressing the Dead with Dead Words

This piece exudes a mystical atmosphere.

Its serene melody evokes a dialogue between the living and the dead.

Composed by Modest Mussorgsky in response to a friend’s death, it is imbued with deep emotion.

It is part of the 1874 piano suite Pictures at an Exhibition, later orchestrated by Maurice Ravel.

The musical idea of calling to the dead resonates powerfully with listeners.

Quiet yet strong, this work is recommended for those who wish to reflect deeply on life and death.

It is a piece that lets you savor the profound depths of classical music.

Night on Bald MountainModest Mussorgsky

Symphonic Poem “Night on Bald Mountain”

From the thrilling opening melody that feels like being chased to the frenzied climax where monsters run wild, this dramatic musical progression is perfect for creating a Halloween that’s not only fun but a little scary, too! Composed by the Russian composer Modest Mussorgsky, this piece depicts a midnight sabbath where witches gather.

It was also used in Disney’s classic film Fantasia, so many will remember its striking impact.

Since the premiere of Rimsky-Korsakov’s arrangement in October 1886, it has been widely beloved.

The structure culminating in the quiet arrival of morning with the tolling of bells is superb as well, making it an excellent choice as BGM to signal the end of a Halloween night.