Among the many masterpieces of Russian classical music, Sadko by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov stands as a vibrant testament to the composer’s imagination, his deep connection to Russian folklore, and his masterful orchestration. Composed originally as a tone poem and later developed into a full opera, Sadko represents one of Rimsky-Korsakov’s most innovative and enduring contributions to the Russian musical canon.

Origins and Inspiration

Sadko is rooted in an ancient Russian bylina—an epic narrative poem—about a legendary gusli player and merchant from Novgorod. According to the legend, Sadko wins the favor of the Sea King through his music and eventually journeys to the underwater realm, only to return to the human world with renewed wisdom. This folkloric theme captured the imagination of 19th-century Russian artists and was particularly appealing to Rimsky-Korsakov, a member of the nationalist group of composers known as The Mighty Handful or The Five.

In 1867, at the encouragement of fellow composer Mily Balakirev, Rimsky-Korsakov composed the original Sadko as a symphonic poem—a relatively new genre at the time. This early version, completed while he was still a young naval officer, was only his second orchestral work and showcased his emerging talent in musical storytelling.

Evolution into a Symphonic Poem

The 1867 version of Sadko was an important step in Rimsky-Korsakov’s development as a composer, but he was not satisfied with it. He revised the piece in 1869, and then again more significantly in 1892, shaping it into the mature symphonic poem that is most often performed today.

This final version is richly orchestrated and evokes the drama of the sea, the mystery of the underwater kingdom, and the emotional journey of Sadko himself. Through vivid tone painting and thematic transformation, Rimsky-Korsakov brings the legend to life, using flowing string passages to mimic the movement of waves and exotic harmonies to suggest the fantastical underwater world.

From Tone Poem to Opera

Rimsky-Korsakov’s fascination with Sadko did not end with the symphonic poem. Between 1894 and 1896, he expanded the story into a full opera, which premiered at the Mariinsky Theatre in 1898. The opera, also titled Sadko, became one of his most celebrated stage works and included many of the themes and orchestral ideas from the original tone poem.

The opera retained the magical and mythical atmosphere of the original story but added a cast of richly drawn characters, vocal ensembles, and dramatic scenes. It became a cornerstone of Russian opera and was admired for its colorful orchestration, lyrical melodies, and imaginative staging.

Musical Characteristics

The tone poem Sadko exemplifies Rimsky-Korsakov’s mastery of orchestration. The music moves from serene depictions of the sea to tempestuous and dramatic climaxes, reflecting the shifting fortunes of the protagonist. The piece features a series of episodes that portray different aspects of the legend, such as the hero’s musical duel and the splendor of the Sea King’s palace.

Among the most remarkable elements of the work is Rimsky-Korsakov’s ability to suggest narrative without words. Each musical section flows seamlessly into the next, creating a continuous sonic journey that mirrors the adventures of Sadko.

Legacy and Influence

Sadko helped establish Rimsky-Korsakov as a leading figure in Russian music. The tone poem in particular influenced later composers such as Igor Stravinsky and Sergei Rachmaninoff, who admired his orchestral technique and his ability to evoke fantasy and folklore through sound.

Today, Sadko remains a beloved piece in the orchestral repertoire, both as a tone poem and as an opera. Its blend of narrative richness, imaginative orchestration, and folkloric charm continues to captivate audiences around the world.

Conclusion

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s Sadko is more than just a musical composition—it is a bridge between the mythic past of Russia and the expressive possibilities of Romantic-era orchestral music. Whether encountered in the concert hall as a tone poem or on stage as an opera, Sadko showcases the composer’s unique gift for bringing ancient legends to life through the power of music.

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Introduction

Among the glittering gems of Russian orchestral music, Scheherazade, Op. 35 stands out as a dazzling example of musical storytelling and orchestral color. Composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov in 1888, this symphonic suite was inspired by the One Thousand and One Nights (also known as The Arabian Nights), a collection of Middle Eastern folk tales that had captured the imagination of European audiences since the 18th century. Scheherazade is not only a masterpiece of program music but also a showcase of Rimsky-Korsakov’s extraordinary skill in orchestration.

Background and Inspiration

In the late 19th century, Russian composers were deeply engaged in creating a distinctly Russian musical identity. Rimsky-Korsakov, a member of the nationalist group of composers known as The Mighty Handful (or The Five), sought to blend traditional Russian themes with exotic, often Eastern-inspired elements.

Rimsky-Korsakov was particularly fascinated by the fantastical and exotic imagery found in The Arabian Nights. The idea of telling a story through music—without words—drew him to the tale of Scheherazade, the legendary storyteller who saved her life by enchanting the Sultan with a different tale each night for 1,001 nights. This framework offered the composer a perfect vehicle for a series of vivid and contrasting musical scenes, tied together by recurring motifs.

Composition and Structure

Composed in the summer of 1888, Scheherazade was originally subtitled “A Musical Suite,” though Rimsky-Korsakov preferred to keep the storyline vague, allowing listeners to use their imagination rather than follow a fixed narrative. Nonetheless, he assigned suggestive titles to the four movements, which hint at the tales Scheherazade might be telling:

1. The Sea and Sinbad’s Ship
2. The Kalendar Prince
3. The Young Prince and the Young Princess
4. Festival at Baghdad – The Sea – The Shipwreck

Each movement is richly descriptive, evoking scenes of adventure, romance, and mystery. A key feature of the suite is the solo violin, representing Scheherazade herself. Her theme recurs throughout the suite, acting as a narrative thread weaving the musical tales together.

Premiere and Reception

Scheherazade premiered in St. Petersburg on October 28, 1888, conducted by Rimsky-Korsakov himself. It was met with immediate enthusiasm and has remained one of his most enduring and frequently performed works. The piece captivated audiences with its colorful orchestration, lyrical themes, and its ability to conjure vivid imagery through purely instrumental means.

Critics and musicians alike praised Rimsky-Korsakov’s genius in orchestration. The use of contrasting instrumental textures, lush harmonies, and dramatic crescendos gave the suite a cinematic quality that prefigured the tone painting of 20th-century composers and even film music.

Musical Legacy and Influence

Scheherazade had a profound influence not only on other Russian composers but also on Western orchestral writing. Its exoticism, lyrical sensibility, and brilliant orchestration served as a model for future generations, including the likes of Maurice Ravel and Igor Stravinsky (Rimsky-Korsakov’s student).

The work also found a second life in ballet and film, with choreographers and directors alike drawn to its dramatic and evocative score. In 1910, Scheherazade was adapted by the Ballets Russes in a celebrated production choreographed by Michel Fokine and designed by Léon Bakst.

Today, Scheherazade is a staple of the concert repertoire, beloved for its sweeping melodies, thrilling climaxes, and the unforgettable solo violin that personifies its legendary heroine.

Conclusion

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade, Op. 35 is more than a symphonic suite; it is a musical voyage into the imagination. By channeling the mystique of The Arabian Nights through masterful orchestration and vivid storytelling, Rimsky-Korsakov created a timeless work that continues to enchant audiences around the world. A triumph of programmatic music, Scheherazade endures as a testament to the power of music to tell stories without words.

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Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, a member of the famous Russian “Mighty Handful,” is celebrated for his masterful orchestration and richly evocative compositions. His works draw on Russian folklore, literature, and the natural world, combining these influences with his unparalleled sense of color and texture. Here, we explore ten of his finest compositions that have left an indelible mark on classical music.

1. Scheherazade, Op. 35

“Scheherazade” is perhaps Rimsky-Korsakov’s most famous work, a symphonic suite inspired by “One Thousand and One Nights.” The composition is known for its lush orchestration and the recurring violin solo representing the voice of Scheherazade herself. Each of the four movements vividly depicts tales of adventure and romance, making it a staple in the orchestral repertoire.

2. Capriccio Espagnol, Op. 34

“Capriccio Espagnol” showcases Rimsky-Korsakov’s ability to infuse his music with the essence of different cultures. This vibrant orchestral work is based on Spanish folk melodies and dances, and its five movements highlight the composer’s brilliant orchestration techniques and rhythmic vitality.

3. The Flight of the Bumblebee

Originally part of the opera “The Tale of Tsar Saltan,” “The Flight of the Bumblebee” is a brief yet dazzling orchestral interlude that has become a popular standalone piece. Its rapid tempo and virtuosic demands on performers make it a thrilling showpiece for both orchestras and solo instrumentalists.

4. Russian Easter Festival Overture, Op. 36

The “Russian Easter Festival Overture” is a vivid musical depiction of the Easter celebrations in Russia. Rimsky-Korsakov weaves together liturgical themes and folk melodies, creating a festive and majestic soundscape. The overture’s grandeur and spiritual depth make it a powerful concert opener.

5. The Golden Cockerel

“The Golden Cockerel” is an opera based on a poem by Alexander Pushkin. Rimsky-Korsakov’s final opera, it features a fantastical plot with satirical undertones and showcases his skill in orchestration and vocal writing. The opera’s exoticism and colorful characters have made it a favorite in the operatic canon.

6. Sadko

“Sadko” is a symphonic poem that tells the story of a legendary Russian minstrel and adventurer. The composition is rich in thematic development and orchestral color, illustrating Rimsky-Korsakov’s ability to create vivid musical narratives. Its lush orchestration and evocative melodies have made it a cornerstone of Russian symphonic music.

7. Symphony No. 2, Op. 9 “Antar”

Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Symphony No. 2,” also known as “Antar,” is a symphonic suite based on an Arabian tale. The work is notable for its exotic themes and orchestration, blending elements of Russian and Eastern musical traditions. Each movement portrays a different episode in the hero Antar’s life, creating a cohesive and enchanting narrative.

8. The Snow Maiden

“The Snow Maiden” is an opera based on a play by Alexander Ostrovsky. It tells the story of a mythical snow maiden who longs to experience human love. Rimsky-Korsakov’s score captures the ethereal and magical quality of the tale, with delicate orchestration and beautiful vocal lines.

9. Mlada

“Mlada” is a ballet-pantomime that showcases Rimsky-Korsakov’s talent for creating dramatic and vivid musical scenes. The work is filled with folkloric elements and colorful orchestration, reflecting the composer’s deep connection to Russian culture and mythology.

10. May Night

“May Night” is an opera based on a story by Nikolai Gogol. It blends supernatural elements with comic and romantic themes, and Rimsky-Korsakov’s score is notable for its lyrical beauty and clever orchestration. The opera’s charming characters and engaging plot have made it a beloved work in the Russian operatic repertoire.

Conclusion

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s compositions continue to captivate audiences with their vivid orchestration, rich melodies, and deep connection to Russian culture and folklore. From the fantastical tales of “Scheherazade” to the spirited rhythms of “Capriccio Espagnol,” his works remain timeless masterpieces in the world of classical music. Whether you are a seasoned listener or new to his music, these ten compositions offer a perfect introduction to the genius of Rimsky-Korsakov.

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Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov was a prominent figure in Russian classical music, known for his colorful orchestrations and vivid compositions. Here are 10 fascinating facts about this remarkable composer:

• Musical Prodigy: Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov was born on March 18, 1844, in Tikhvin, Russia. He displayed exceptional musical talent from a young age, showing proficiency in piano and composition by his teenage years.

• Naval Officer Turned Composer: Despite his early musical inclinations, Rimsky-Korsakov initially pursued a career in the Russian Imperial Navy. He served as a naval officer for several years before fully dedicating himself to music.

• The Mighty Five: Rimsky-Korsakov was a member of the “Mighty Five” or “The Five,” a group of Russian composers who aimed to create a distinct national style of Russian classical music. Other members included Modest Mussorgsky, Mily Balakirev, César Cui, and Alexander Borodin.

• Master Orchestrator: Rimsky-Korsakov was renowned for his exceptional skill in orchestration. His works are characterized by rich, colorful instrumentation, influenced by his deep understanding of wind and brass instruments, likely stemming from his naval background.

• Influential Educator: Rimsky-Korsakov’s contributions to music education were profound. He served as a professor at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory and mentored several notable composers, including Igor Stravinsky and Sergei Prokofiev.

• Exoticism in Music: Many of Rimsky-Korsakov’s compositions are inspired by exotic themes and folklore. Pieces like “Scheherazade” and “Capriccio Espagnol” showcase his fascination with Eastern melodies and Spanish rhythms.

• Operatic Legacy: Rimsky-Korsakov composed 15 operas, ranging from historical dramas to fairy tale fantasies. His operas, such as “The Golden Cockerel” and “The Tale of Tsar Saltan,” are celebrated for their imaginative storytelling and lush orchestration.

• Controversial Revisions: Rimsky-Korsakov was known for revising and orchestrating the works of his fellow composers, including Modest Mussorgsky’s “Boris Godunov.” While these revisions were often praised for their craftsmanship, they also sparked debates among music scholars.

• Political Activism: Rimsky-Korsakov was involved in political activism, advocating for democratic reforms in Russia. He participated in protests and signed petitions, which led to his dismissal from the Saint Petersburg Conservatory in 1906 due to his perceived revolutionary sympathies.

• Lasting Legacy: Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s influence on Russian music and orchestration techniques is enduring. His compositions continue to be performed worldwide, and his contributions to music education have left an indelible mark on generations of composers and musicians.

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Introduction:

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, a legendary Russian composer of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, holds a prominent place in the annals of classical music. Known for his colorful orchestrations and rich harmonies, Rimsky-Korsakov’s compositions continue to captivate audiences around the world. In this blog post, we will dive into the mesmerizing world of Rimsky-Korsakov and explore the 10 best songs that showcase his genius.

• “Scheherazade” (1888): Undoubtedly one of Rimsky-Korsakov’s most famous works, “Scheherazade” is a symphonic suite inspired by “One Thousand and One Nights.” With its lush melodies, evocative storytelling, and brilliant orchestration, this masterpiece takes listeners on a magical journey through tales of love, adventure, and fantasy.

• “Flight of the Bumblebee” (from “The Tale of Tsar Saltan,” 1899): This dazzling orchestral interlude, often performed as a standalone piece, showcases Rimsky-Korsakov’s technical mastery and creativity. With its rapid-fire notes and intricate phrasing, “Flight of the Bumblebee” is a true showcase of virtuosity for any instrumentalist.

• “Capriccio Espagnol” (1887): Influenced by Spanish folk music, “Capriccio Espagnol” is a vibrant orchestral composition that brims with energy and rhythmic complexity. Its vivid colors and lively rhythms capture the essence of Spanish culture, making it an audience favorite.

• “The Snow Maiden” (1881): “The Snow Maiden” is an opera that tells the enchanting story of a girl made of snow who yearns to experience love and human emotions. The opera features captivating melodies, lush choral sections, and expressive characterizations, revealing Rimsky-Korsakov’s gift for creating deeply moving and emotionally resonant music.

• “Russian Easter Festival Overture” (1888): In this majestic composition, Rimsky-Korsakov brilliantly captures the spirit of Russian Orthodox Easter celebrations. The piece alternates between serene and powerful passages, incorporating lush harmonies, dazzling orchestration, and triumphant choral sections.

• “The Golden Cockerel” (1907): Based on a satirical poem by Alexander Pushkin, “The Golden Cockerel” is a fantastical opera that combines political satire and fairy tale elements. Rimsky-Korsakov’s music brings the story to life with its lyrical beauty, dramatic tension, and richly orchestrated passages.

• “Sadko” (1896): Inspired by Russian folklore, “Sadko” is an opera that tells the tale of a minstrel’s journey to the underwater kingdom of the Sea Tsar. Rimsky-Korsakov’s composition weaves together enchanting melodies, evocative harmonies, and grand choruses, creating a magical and immersive musical experience.

• “The Tale of Tsar Saltan” (1900): This opera, based on a fairy tale by Pushkin, features a delightful mix of lyrical arias, playful orchestration, and charming vocal ensembles. The music captures the whimsy and charm of the story, making it a delightful experience for both performers and listeners.

• “Mlada” (1890): A collaborative effort among several Russian composers, “Mlada” is a ballet that combines elements of fantasy, mythology, and romance. Rimsky-Korsakov’s contribution to the score exhibits his masterful orchestration skills, creating a tapestry of lush melodiesand dynamic rhythms that transport the audience to a world of enchantment.

• “The Legend of the Invisible City of Kitezh and the Maiden Fevroniya” (1907): Considered one of Rimsky-Korsakov’s most ambitious works, this opera tells the story of the mythical city of Kitezh and its protectress, Fevroniya. The music is deeply emotive and atmospheric, ranging from delicate and ethereal passages to powerful and sweeping orchestral climaxes, showcasing the composer’s ability to evoke a wide range of emotions.

Conclusion:

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s compositions continue to enthrall listeners with their vivid storytelling, rich harmonies, and imaginative orchestration. From the evocative “Scheherazade” to the virtuosic “Flight of the Bumblebee,” each of the 10 songs discussed in this blog post highlights the genius and artistry of this remarkable composer. Whether you’re a seasoned classical music enthusiast or a newcomer to Rimsky-Korsakov’s works, exploring these masterpieces will undoubtedly leave you in awe of his musical prowess and enduring legacy.

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Introduction:

In the world of classical music, there are composers whose works continue to captivate audiences even long after their time. One such luminary is Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, a legendary Russian composer, conductor, and teacher. Rimsky-Korsakov’s musical genius and his significant contributions to the realm of orchestral music have secured him a permanent place in the annals of music history. Let’s delve into the life and legacy of this remarkable composer.

Early Life and Musical Journey:

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov was born on March 18, 1844, in Tikhvin, a small town in northwestern Russia. From a young age, Rimsky-Korsakov exhibited exceptional musical talent, displaying an innate understanding of melodies and harmonies. At the age of twelve, he began taking piano lessons and soon developed a deep love for music.

Education and Naval Career:

Rimsky-Korsakov’s path to becoming a professional musician took an unconventional turn when he joined the Imperial Russian Navy as a midshipman. While serving in the navy, he continued to nurture his musical skills and composed several pieces during his spare time. However, it was only after meeting composer Mily Balakirev that Rimsky-Korsakov’s true potential as a composer began to flourish.

The Mighty Five:

Rimsky-Korsakov became a prominent member of a group of five Russian composers known as “The Mighty Five” or “The Five.” This group, which included Balakirev, Cui, Borodin, and Mussorgsky, aimed to establish a distinctly Russian style of music, distinct from Western European influences. Rimsky-Korsakov’s contributions to this movement showcased his exceptional talent for orchestration and his ability to infuse Russian folk melodies into his compositions.

Mastery of Orchestration:

One of Rimsky-Korsakov’s greatest strengths as a composer was his mastery of orchestration. His understanding of various instruments and their capabilities allowed him to create breathtaking musical landscapes that brought his compositions to life. His orchestral suites, such as “Scheherazade,” “Capriccio Espagnol,” and “Russian Easter Festival Overture,” are testament to his remarkable skill in blending rich melodies with vibrant orchestral colors.

Operatic Brilliance:

Alongside his instrumental compositions, Rimsky-Korsakov also left an indelible mark on the world of opera. His operas, including “The Snow Maiden,” “Sadko,” and “The Golden Cockerel,” display his ability to weave captivating narratives with beautiful melodies and dramatic flair. Rimsky-Korsakov’s operatic works not only showcased his exceptional compositional talent but also contributed to the evolution of Russian opera.

Teaching and Legacy:

In addition to his creative endeavors, Rimsky-Korsakov was a dedicated and influential teacher. He served as a professor of composition and orchestration at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, where he mentored several prominent composers, including Igor Stravinsky. His teachings and treatises on music theory, such as “Principles of Orchestration,” continue to be studied and revered by aspiring composers worldwide.

Conclusion:

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s extraordinary contributions to the world of classical music have solidified his place as one of the most influential Russian composers of all time. His ability to infuse his compositions with rich melodies, vibrant orchestrations, and a distinctly Russian identity make his works instantly recognizable and deeply moving. Rimsky-Korsakov’s legacy lives on through his timeless compositions and his enduring influence on generations of musicians.

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Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov, born on March 18, 1844, in Tikhvin, Russia, was a prominent Russian composer, conductor, and music educator. He is regarded as one of the leading figures of the late 19th-century Russian classical music. Rimsky-Korsakov’s musical genius and innovative compositions have left an indelible mark on the world of music.

From an early age, Rimsky-Korsakov showed a natural inclination and talent for music. He began taking piano lessons at the age of six and later developed skills in composition and orchestration. In 1856, he entered the Imperial Russian Navy and sailed around the world, which exposed him to different cultures and musical traditions, greatly influencing his later works.

In 1861, Rimsky-Korsakov met Mily Balakirev, a composer and leader of “The Five” (a group of Russian composers), who recognized his talent and encouraged him to pursue a career in music. Under Balakirev’s guidance, Rimsky-Korsakov honed his skills and developed a unique musical style characterized by rich orchestration, colorful harmonies, and exotic melodies.

Rimsky-Korsakov’s compositions are known for their vivid programmatic elements and folklore-inspired themes. His orchestral suite “Scheherazade” is perhaps his most famous work, drawing inspiration from the Arabian Nights tales. The piece showcases his exceptional talent for orchestration and his ability to paint musical pictures that transport listeners to distant lands.

Throughout his life, Rimsky-Korsakov held various positions in the musical world. He served as the director of the Free Music School in Saint Petersburg, where he played a crucial role in shaping the next generation of Russian composers, including Igor Stravinsky. He later became the professor of composition and orchestration at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory, where he continued to inspire and educate young musicians.

In addition to his composing and teaching career, Rimsky-Korsakov was an accomplished conductor. He held the position of conductor at the Russian Musical Society and led performances of his own works as well as those of other composers. His interpretations were known for their precision and attention to detail, earning him great admiration from both musicians and audiences.

Rimsky-Korsakov’s life was not without challenges. He struggled with self-doubt and constantly sought to improve his compositional skills. He went through periods of self-criticism and revision, often revisiting and revising earlier works. Despite these personal struggles, his dedication to music and his desire to push the boundaries of Russian classical music never wavered.

Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov passed away on June 21, 1908, in Lyubensk, Russia, leaving behind a remarkable musical legacy. His compositions continue to be celebrated and performed worldwide, enchanting audiences with their vibrant melodies and imaginative storytelling. Rimsky-Korsakov’s contributions to Russian music and his influence on future generations of composers solidify his place as one of the great musical masters of the Romantic era.

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Scheherazade, also commonly Sheherazade (Russian), Op. 35, is a symphonic suite composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov in 1888 and based on One Thousand and One Nights (also known as The Arabian Nights).

This orchestral work combines two features typical of Russian music in general and of Rimsky-Korsakov in particular: dazzling, colorful orchestration and an interest in the East, which figured greatly in the history of Imperial Russia, as well as orientalism in general. The name “Scheherazade” refers to the main character Scheherazade of the One Thousand and One Nights. It is considered Rimsky-Korsakov’s most popular work.

During the winter of 1887, as he worked to complete Alexander Borodin’s unfinished opera Prince Igor, Rimsky-Korsakov decided to compose an orchestral piece based on pictures from One Thousand and One Nights as well as separate and unconnected episodes. After formulating musical sketches of his proposed work, he moved with his family to the Glinki-Mavriny dacha, in Nyezhgovitsy along the Cherementets Lake (near present-day Luga, in Leningrad Oblast). The dacha where he stayed was destroyed by the Germans during World War II.

During the summer, he finished Scheherazade and the Russian Easter Festival Overture. Notes in his autograph orchestral score show that the former was completed between June 4 and August 7, 1888. Scheherazade consisted of a symphonic suite of four related movements that form a unified theme. It was written to produce a sensation of fantasy narratives from the Orient.

Initially, Rimsky-Korsakov intended to name the respective movements in Scheherazade “Prelude, Ballade, Adagio and Finale”. However, after weighing the opinions of Anatoly Lyadov and others, as well as his own aversion to a too-definitive program, he settled upon thematic headings, based upon the tales from The Arabian Nights.
The composer deliberately made the titles vague so that they are not associated with specific tales or voyages of Sinbad.

However, in the epigraph to the finale, he does make reference to the adventure of Prince Ajib. In a later edition, Rimsky-Korsakov did away with titles altogether, desiring instead that the listener should hear his work only as an Oriental-themed symphonic music that evokes a sense of the fairy-tale adventure, stating:

All I desired was that the hearer, if he liked my piece as symphonic music, should carry away the impression that it is beyond a doubt an Oriental narrative of some numerous and varied fairy-tale wonders and not merely four pieces played one after the other and composed on the basis of themes common to all the four movements.
He went on to say that he kept the name Scheherazade because it brought to everyone’s mind the fairy-tale wonders of Arabian Nights and the East in general.

Korsakov – Scheherazade, Op. 35

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Korsakov Biography – Music Collection

Nikolai Andreyevich Rimsky-Korsakov (Russian 18 March [O.S. 6 March] 1844 – 21 June [O.S. 8 June] 1908) was a Russian composer, and a member of the group of composers known as The Five. He was a master of orchestration. His best-known orchestral compositions—Capriccio Espagnol, the Russian Easter Festival Overture, and the symphonic suite Scheherazade—are staples of the classical music repertoire, along with suites and excerpts from some of his 15 operas. Scheherazade is an example of his frequent use of fairy-tale and folk subjects.
Rimsky-Korsakov believed in developing a nationalistic style of classical music, as did his fellow-composer Mily Balakirev and the critic Vladimir Stasov. This style employed Russian folk song and lore along with exotic harmonic, melodic and rhythmic elements in a practice known as musical orientalism, and eschewed traditional Western compositional methods. Rimsky-Korsakov appreciated Western musical techniques after he became a professor of musical composition, harmony, and orchestration at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory in 1871. He undertook a rigorous three-year program of self-education and became a master of Western methods, incorporating them alongside the influences of Mikhail Glinka and fellow members of The Five. Rimsky-Korsakov’s techniques of composition and orchestration were further enriched by his exposure to the works of Richard Wagner.
For much of his life, Rimsky-Korsakov combined his composition and teaching with a career in the Russian military—at first as an officer in the Imperial Russian Navy, then as the civilian Inspector of Naval Bands. He wrote that he developed a passion for the ocean in childhood from reading books and hearing of his older brother’s exploits in the navy. This love of the sea may have influenced him to write two of his best-known orchestral works, the musical tableau Sadko (not to be confused with his later opera of the same name) and Scheherazade. As Inspector of Naval Bands, Rimsky-Korsakov expanded his knowledge of woodwind and brass playing, which enhanced his abilities in orchestration. He passed this knowledge to his students, and also posthumously through a textbook on orchestration that was completed by his son-in-law, Maximilian Steinberg.
Rimsky-Korsakov left a considerable body of original Russian nationalist compositions. He prepared works by The Five for performance, which brought them into the active classical repertoire (although there is controversy over his editing of the works of Modest Mussorgsky), and shaped a generation of younger composers and musicians during his decades as an educator. Rimsky-Korsakov is therefore considered “the main architect” of what the classical-music public considers the “Russian style” of composition. His influence on younger composers was especially important, as he served as a transitional figure between the autodidactism exemplified by Glinka and The Five, and professionally trained composers which would become the norm in Russia by the closing years of the 19th century. While Rimsky-Korsakov’s style was based on those of Glinka, Balakirev, Hector Berlioz, Franz Liszt and, for a brief period, Wagner, he “transmitted this style directly to two generations of Russian composers” and influenced non-Russian composers including Maurice Ravel, Claude Debussy, Paul Dukas, and Ottorino Respighi.

Tracklist:
1 – Rimsky-Korsakov – Tale of Tsar Saltan – Flight of the Bumblebee
2 – Rimsky-Korsakov – Polonaise
3 – Korsakov – Scheherazade, Op. 35 – I. The Sea and Sinbad’s Ship
4 – Rimsky-Korsakov – At the Monastery

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Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov – Tale of Tsar Saltan (Flight of the Bumblebee)

The Tale of Tsar Saltan (Russian: Сказка о царе Салтане, Skazka o Tsare Saltane) is an opera in four acts with a prologue (a total of seven scenes) by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. The libretto was written by Vladimir Belsky, and is based on the poem of the same name by Aleksandr Pushkin. The opera was composed in 1899–1900 to coincide with Pushkin’s centenary, and was first performed in 1900 in Moscow, Russia.
The lengthy full title of both the opera and the poem is The Tale of Tsar Saltan, of his Son the Renowned and Mighty Bogatyr Prince Gvidon Saltanovich and of the Beautiful Princess-Swan (Russian: Сказка о царе Салтане, о сыне его славном и могучем богатыре князе Гвидоне Салтановиче и о прекрасной царевне Лебеди Skazka o tsare Saltane, o syne yego slavnom i moguchem bogatyre knyaze Gvidone Saltanoviche i o prekrasnoy tsarevne Lebedi).

The plot of the opera generally follows that of Pushkin’s fairy-tale poem, with the addition of some characters, some expansion (particularly for Act 1), and some compression (mostly by reducing Gvidon’s three separate trips to one). The libretto by Belsky borrows many lines from and largely emulates the style of Pushkin’s poem, which is written in couplets of trochaic tetrameter. The music is composed in the manner of Rimsky-Korsakov’s operas after Snowmaiden, i.e., having a more or less continuous musical texture throughout a tableau system, broken up here and there by song-like passages.

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