Mily Balakirev was a Russian composer, conductor, and pianist born on January 2, 1837. He is best known for his role in the development of Russian classical music and for being a leading figure in the Mighty Handful, a group of composers who sought to create a distinct Russian style. His most famous work is the symphonic poem "Islamey," which showcases his unique blend of folk melodies and classical forms. Balakirev was also a talented pianist and a dedicated teacher, influencing many younger musicians, including Modest Mussorgsky and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. Throughout his career, he advocated for the use of Russian folk themes in classical music, helping to establish a national identity in the genre. He passed away on May 29, 1910.