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.
- A gem of a masterpiece by the composer of the piano suite Pictures at an Exhibition by Mussorgsky.
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Mussorgsky’s masterpieces. Popular classical music (41–50)
Intermezzo in the classical styleModest Mussorgsky
Modest Mussorgsky, who was active as one of the Russian composer collective known as “The Mighty Handful,” composed among his works the particularly noteworthy Intermezzo in Classical Style, a gem for piano written in 1861.
While the piece possesses a classical structure, it distinctively incorporates uniquely Russian expression.
Technically demanding, it weaves together complex harmonies and melodies, making it both challenging and highly appealing for performers.
Grounded in B-flat minor, it occasionally modulates to the major, creating dynamic contrasts; its character—combining traditional rhythmic patterns with irregular accents—conveys a strong sense of Russian national identity.
reverieModest Mussorgsky
Modest Mussorgsky, known as a member of the Russian nationalist “Mighty Handful,” composed his piano piece Reverie around 1865.
Though short, it is distinguished by a gentle melody and a dreamlike atmosphere.
The work reflects Mussorgsky’s inner exploration and quiet contemplation, richly infused with the emotions and experiences of his tumultuous life.
Reverie is an important piece for understanding his musical language rooted in Russian folk songs and traditions, and it can be called a quintessential Mussorgsky work—simple yet deeply expressive.
Pictures at an ExhibitionModest Mussorgsky
Just as the Czech composer Dvořák had his counterparts, Russia also had composers known as the “Mighty Handful” or “nationalist school.” Mussorgsky was one of them.
Pictures at an Exhibition is not only one of the famous works of the late Romantic era but has also become a classic of Russian music.
Promenade from Pictures at an ExhibitionModest Mussorgsky
Pictures at an Exhibition, a piano suite composed by Modest Mussorgsky, one of the Russian Five.
Among its pieces, the one I particularly recommend is Promenade from Pictures at an Exhibition.
Since it is frequently used in Japanese media, many of you may have heard it.
In fact, Mussorgsky composed this work after being deeply shocked by the death of the Russian painter Viktor Hartmann.
Despite that background, the piece has a brilliant, celebratory tone—perhaps reflecting how Mussorgsky, while mourning the painter’s death, was also genuinely enjoying the exhibition.
Impromptu PassionatoModest Mussorgsky
Modest Mussorgsky, regarded as one of the founders of Russian nationalist music and known as a member of “The Five,” drew inspiration from Russian folktales and legends.
His music naturally portrays Russian scenes and emotions, oscillating between realism and expressionism.
His exquisite piano piece Passionate Improvisation is characterized by inventive harmony and rhythmic experimentation.
Alternating passages of unpredictable modulations and complex rhythms leave listeners deeply moved.
How about immersing yourself in Mussorgsky’s passionate musical world by experiencing his works?
In the VillageModest Mussorgsky
Modest Mussorgsky, one of the “Mighty Handful” (The Five), a group of composers representing the Russian nationalist school.
Gifted with innate talent—having received his first piano lessons from his mother around the age of seven—Mussorgsky rebelled against tradition while striving to render, artistically, every subtle shade of the spoken word.
His piano piece In the Village is a work that depicts the simple beauty and harsh realities of rural Russia, said to have been inspired by experiences he had in the countryside with friends around 1880.
Though it has no lyrics, it conveys through music various aspects of the rural landscape and everyday life, and its deeply emotional, narrative quality resonates powerfully with listeners.
It is highly recommended for those interested in Russian nature and culture, and for anyone with a sensitive ear.
tear(s)Modest Mussorgsky
The piece Tears, composed by Modest Mussorgsky in his later years, expresses the deep sadness and loneliness within him.
Its melody, like a cry from the composer’s own heart, is sure to move any listener.
Throughout the work, a strong sense of personal suffering and despair permeates, and beyond Mussorgsky’s individual emotions, one can also feel a distinctive musical atmosphere influenced by Russian folk music.
It is a masterpiece I highly recommend to anyone drawn to emotionally rich musical expression.