Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

A renowned Russian theoretician whose book on orchestration (Principles of Orchestration, 1913) is still widely studied; part of "The Mighty Five," who revived the Russian musical spirit and sound in the second half of the 19th century. His Scheherazade, with its exotic imagery, flowing melodies, and balletic rhythms, is his most famous piece, but Rimsky-Korsakov regarded his operas as his best achievement. In fact, two of the eight operas -- The Invisible City of Kitezh and The Golden Cockerel -- are unappreciated masterpieces, and the opera Mlada is notable for its Wagnerian...