About the composer
Alexander Scriabin
- Years of life
- 1872–1915
- Period
- Romanticism to modernism
A Russian composer and pianist whose music developed from Romantic piano writing towards a highly individual and adventurous harmonic language.
Explore their musicLife and music
Scriabin studied at the Moscow Conservatory and began as a pianist and author of romantic piano pieces. Later, his harmony and artistic concepts changed noticeably. Alongside sonatas, preludes, and études, he created symphonic works. The Moscow Memorial Museum preserves the atmosphere of his final years.
What the music sounds like
Early miniatures are linked to romantic lyricism, while later music increasingly departs from familiar tonal foundations. Even in small pieces, expressiveness depends on inner movement, harmonic nuances, and flexibility of phrase. Different periods of creativity require different listening approaches.
What to listen for at the piano
Notes for independent practiceFirst, determine where the phrase accumulates tension and where it releases. Bring out the melody from the chords and accompaniment. Clarify the tempo and pedal after hearing the harmonic changes and the direction of the voices.
Music in our catalogue
Open a score and start practising
Sources and further reading
Biographical information is checked against the materials listed here. The performance notes are editorial guidance from Vibe Piano.