Pictures at an Exhibition

Definition

Pictures at an Exhibition is a suite of musical pieces originally composed for piano by Modest Mussorgsky in 1874, inspired by an exhibition of drawings and watercolors by his friend Viktor Hartmann. This work reflects elements of nationalism through its use of Russian themes and folk elements, showcasing the unique cultural identity of Russia during the 19th century. It was later orchestrated by Maurice Ravel, which helped popularize the piece and solidify its status as a significant example of program music.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Mussorgsky composed Pictures at an Exhibition as a tribute to his late friend Viktor Hartmann, using the exhibition's art as inspiration for each movement in the suite.
2. The piece consists of ten movements plus a recurring Promenade theme, which represents the listener's journey through the exhibition.
3. Ravel's orchestration of Pictures at an Exhibition was completed in 1922 and is often more recognized than the original piano version, bringing wider appreciation to Mussorgsky's work.
4. The suite showcases various musical styles and moods, reflecting different artworks including a gnome, a catacomb, and a ballet of chicks in their shells.
5. Pictures at an Exhibition is frequently performed by orchestras around the world and remains a staple in both concert repertoire and popular culture.

Review Questions

• How does Pictures at an Exhibition exemplify the use of program music in its composition?
  • Pictures at an Exhibition is a prime example of program music as it is designed to convey specific images and narratives inspired by the art of Viktor Hartmann. Each movement corresponds to a particular artwork or idea, allowing listeners to visualize the scenes Mussorgsky intended to represent. The recurring Promenade theme guides the audience through this 'exhibition,' showcasing how music can evoke visual art through sound.
• Discuss the impact of Ravel's orchestration on the perception and popularity of Pictures at an Exhibition.
  • Ravel's orchestration significantly transformed Pictures at an Exhibition, enhancing its texture and emotional depth while introducing it to broader audiences. His skillful arrangement highlighted Mussorgsky's original themes while adding richness through orchestral colors, which captivated listeners. This version overshadowed the original piano composition, elevating Mussorgsky's work in the concert repertoire and making it more accessible to those unfamiliar with the piano suite.
• Evaluate how Pictures at an Exhibition reflects the themes of nationalism in 19th-century music through its structure and content.
  • Pictures at an Exhibition embodies nationalism by incorporating Russian cultural elements within its structure and content. Mussorgsky used native folk themes and rhythms to create a distinctly Russian sound that connected with his audience's identity. The portrayal of diverse scenes from Hartmann's artwork mirrors the nation's artistic heritage, aligning with the broader nationalist movement where composers sought to express their national identities through music during this transformative era.

Related terms

Program Music: A type of instrumental music that is intended to evoke images or convey the impression of events, often based on a narrative or a specific theme.

Mussorgsky: A Russian composer known for his innovative use of harmony and orchestration, particularly in works like Pictures at an Exhibition and his opera Boris Godunov.

Nationalism: A musical movement that emerged in the 19th century, where composers drew inspiration from the folk music, traditions, and cultural identity of their own countries.