Kabalevsky was a pupil of Myaskovsky at the Moscow Conservatory, where he himself taught from 1932, and in general did his utmost to conform with government cultural policy, occupying important positions in the Union of Soviet Composers. He wrote operas and operettas that enjoyed success in Russia, as did his patriotic vocal works and useful compositions for children.

Orchestral Music

Kabalevsky’s orchestral music has won greater favour abroad than his dramatic and vocal compositions. Mention may be made of his Suite from the opera The Comedians and another from incidental music for Romeo and Juliet, and his two cello concertos.