ABSTRACT
As unique as Scriabin’s performing style may be, both its origin and its spectacular growth can be placed entirely within the traditions of the Russian piano school. The origins of professional piano performance in Russia go back to the time when a 20-year-old Dubliner, John Field (1782-1837), arrived in Russia, along with his teacher, Muzio Clementi. Clementi soon returned to London, but Field stayed behind and settled in the new country for good, concertizing and composing on his path to fame. Among Field’s many distinguished students were the composer Mikhail Glinka (1804-1857) and Alexander Dubuque (1812-97/98), who became one of the leading pianists in Russia. Dubuque’s numerous students included the composer Mily Balakirev and Nikolai Zverev, who, in turn, taught the young Sergei Rachmaninov and Alexander Scriabin.
