The Mighty Handful of Russian Composers

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Questions and Answers

What was the primary goal of the 'Mighty Handful' composers?

  • To focus exclusively on orchestral symphonies
  • To create a distinctly Russian music independent of Western influences (correct)
  • To integrate Western musical styles into Russian culture
  • To promote classical music in European countries

Which composer is known as the 'Father of Russian music'?

  • Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov
  • Mikhail Glinka (correct)
  • César Cui
  • Modest Mussorgsky

Which two composers were initially enrolled in the Russian army?

  • Modest Mussorgsky and Alexander Borodin
  • César Cui and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov
  • César Cui and Modest Mussorgsky (correct)
  • Mily Balakirev and Modest Mussorgsky

In which year did Mily Balakirev found the Free School of Music in St. Petersburg?

<p>1862 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What significant event in Mily Balakirev's life occurred in 1857?

<p>Mikhail Glinka died, and Balakirev took up the banner for Russian music (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What activity did Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov combine with his musical career?

<p>Naval career (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the relationship between Balakirev and Borodin in 1863?

<p>Balakirev persuaded Borodin to focus more on his music (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which composer of the 'Mighty Handful' was also a chemist?

<p>Alexander Borodin (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the 'Mighty Handful' members was the youngest at the time of the group's formation?

<p>Mily Balakirev (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What cultural inspirations were commonly used by the 'Mighty Handful' in their compositions?

<p>Russian legends, songs, and folk dances (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Mighty Handful

A group of five Russian composers focused on national identity in music.

Mily Balakirev

A key figure in the Mighty Handful who inspired others in St. Petersburg.

Mikhail Glinka

Considered the Father of Russian music, influenced the Mighty Handful.

César Cui

A composer and military man involved with Balakirev and Mussorgsky.

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Modest Mussorgsky

Composed significant works after leaving his army career to pursue music.

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Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

A composer who balanced a navy career while creating music.

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Alexander Borodin

A composer and chemist who contributed to symphonies with Rimsky-Korsakov.

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Russian Nationalism

The movement that inspired Russian composers to embrace their cultural identity.

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Folk Traditions

Traditional songs and stories that influenced the Mighty Handful.

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Conflict in the 1860s

The Mighty Handful began to drift apart due to disagreements.

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Study Notes

The Mighty Handful

  • In the 19th century, Russia experienced a surge of nationalism, composers desired to create distinctly Russian music, rather than imitating Western styles.
  • The "Mighty Handful" was a group of 5 passionate Russian composers.
  • Key figures in the group included Balakirev, Borodin, Cui, Mussorgsky, and Rimsky-Korsakov.
  • The group sought to develop a unique Russian musical identity drawing from Russian legends, stories, songs, and dances.

Musicians' Biographies

  • Mikhail Glinka (1804-1857): Considered the "Father of Russian Music", he encouraged a return to Russian musical heritage.
  • Balakirev: Met Glinka at age 18, was inspired by him. Began befriending other composers (Cui, Mussorgsky) and inspired them. Took up the cause of Russian music following Glinka's death.
  • Mussorgsky: Left army career to focus on music, inspired by Glinka.
  • Rimsky-Korsakov: Combined navy career with music, and met Balakirev.
  • Borodin: Met Balakirev, and combined chemistry career with music.

Group Development

  • The group initially worked together creatively, but later grew apart due to differing approaches and demands.
  • Balakirev struggled to maintain the original creative energy and influence within the group.
  • The group's style moved away from Balakirev's leadership.

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