(1855 - 1914)
Anatoly Liadov was a Russian composer and music professor. His father was the conductor at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg. Anatoly studied music at the St. Petersburg Conservatory, then a newly-founded school. Initially, he studied piano and violin, but he soon became interested in music composition. He went on to teach at the Conservatory. Liadov's compositions fall into the category of 'Russian nationalist' music. His short orchestral works include tone poems and dances. Many of his works were either intended for use in ballet or chosen for dance interpretations by choreographers. Ironically, Liadov may be best known for the famous ballet music he didn't write, 'The Firebird.' When Liadov couldn't produce a score in time, the ballet producer turned to a new young composer, Igor Stravinsky, to provide the music instead. Listening to Liadov's orchestral music, one hears the influence of Rimsky-Korsakov (one of his teachers) in the skillful use of instrumental colours. The way phrases build in his music is sometimes reminiscent of Tchaikovsky, but traces of Wagner and French composers are also evident. Liadov's 'Baba Yaga' (for example) is quite similar to 'The Sorceror's Apprentice' by Paul Dukas.
Anatoly Liadov Composition Timpani and Percussion Requirements
Eight Russian Folk Songs
Timpani + 2 percussion
Tambourine, triangle
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Enchanted Lake
Timpani + 3 percussion
1) suspended cymbal, 2) tam tam, 3) orchestral bass drum
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Polonaise
Timpani + 4 percussion
Clash cymbals, orchestral bass drum, triangle, snare drum
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