My Musical Life by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov is a fascinating autobiography offering a personal glimpse into the vibrant world of late 19th-century Russian music. The composer shares his journey from amateur musician to one of the leading figures of Russian musical nationalism. Through candid reflections, Rimsky-Korsakov discusses his creative process, collaborations with iconic contemporaries like Mussorgsky and Borodin, and his influential role in shaping the Russian operatic and orchestral tradition. The memoir also provides intriguing insights into Russian opera houses, the formation of Belayev’s publishing house, and the cultural currents of the time, making it essential reading for classical music lovers and history enthusiasts alike.
