Musical review of Modest Mussorgsky's paintings from an exhibition

This study deals with a detailed analysis of the work titled "Paintings from an Exhibition" composed by Modest Mussorgsky, inspired by the works of Russian painter Viktor Hartmann. The aim of the research is to examine the musical and technical aspects of the work in detail. "Paintings from an Exhibition" consists of a total of 5 transitions (promenade) and 10 different sections. In order to establish a concrete relationship with the composer, Hartmann's existing paintings were also included in the research. A comprehensive study was conducted in the findings, including technical, formal, musical and historical information for each passage and section. The descriptive feature and symphonic structure of Mussorgsky's work "Paintings from an Exhibition" distinguishes it from other works and pioneers its counterparts. The work's impressionist texture and symphonic poetic structure enable it to use a descriptive technique that is not set in a specific pattern. As a result, it is thought that the information obtained from this study will create a different interpretable resource for musicologists, music theorists and piano players. Because the work is not only a descriptive piece of music, but also a detailed masterpiece that can be considered as the reflection of the Russian national music movement and impressionism in Russia. In addition, the historical findings in the research are aimed to be an important reference source in the literature.