Anton Grigoryevich Rubinstein

Anton Grigoryevich Rubinstein (1829–1894) was a leading Russian composer, pianist, and conductor, and one of the most prominent internationally active virtuosos of the nineteenth century. He established himself as a performer from an early age, gave concerts throughout Europe, and later played an important role in the development of musical life in Russia. In 1862, he founded the St. Petersburg Conservatory, helping to establish the foundations of modern higher music education in the country. As a composer, he combined brilliant virtuosity and richly sonorous textures with the lyrical, songful expression characteristic of Romanticism. His piano music includes the celebrated Melody in F major, the piano pieces Kamennoi-Ostrov, and four piano concertos. These works are rich in pianistic effect while retaining a strong appeal through the beauty and expressiveness of their melodies.