The Bust of M. A. Balakirev — a monument to the outstanding composer, conductor, organizer, and leader of the "Mighty Handful," M. A. Balakirev (1837–1910) — is located in Nizhny Novgorod, in the small garden by house no. 5 on Proviantskaya Street.
Project Authors
- Sculptor: V. I. Purikhov
- Architect: G. P. Malkov
History of Creation
From 1842 to 1848, M. A. Balakirev lived at house no. 5 on Proviantskaya Street. It was here that he received his first piano lessons. In 1973, the building was restored and transferred to the Nizhny Novgorod branch of the Union of Composers. In 1979, it was decided to erect a monument to Balakirev in the garden in front of the house.
Description of the Monument
A sculptural bust in black granite; Balakirev's signature is carved in gold on the pedestal. Nearby stands a bronze stele in the form of a musical staff, bearing the words: "Had it not been for Balakirev, the fate of Russian music would have been entirely different."
Unveiling of the Monument
The monument was unveiled on October 10, 1980. Students and faculty of the conservatory, the boys' choral capella, and staff of the philharmonic attended the ceremonial gathering.