Mily Alekseyevich Balakirev

Mily Alekseyevich Balakirev (1837–1910) was a Russian composer, conductor, and educator. A leading figure in the formation of the Russian nationalist school, he worked at the center of “The Five” alongside Borodin, Mussorgsky, Rimsky-Korsakov, and Cui. His music is characterized by an interest in Russian folk melodies, distinctive harmonies, and Eastern modes and rhythms, interests that shaped both his compositions and his musical activities. In the piano repertoire, he is particularly known for Islamey, a work combining brilliant virtuosity with vivid national color. He also produced the 30 Russian Folk Songs, which draw on and develop traditional melodies, as well as a Piano Sonata and several mazurkas. Balakirev was an important influence on the later development of Russian music, especially its piano repertoire.