Russian composers have made significant contributions to classical music, particularly from the 19th century onward. Notable figures include Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, known for his ballets like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker, and Sergei Rachmaninoff, famous for his piano concertos and symphonies. Their works often reflect the rich cultural heritage and emotional depth of Russian life. Another important group of composers is the Mighty Handful, a collective that included Modest Mussorgsky and Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov. They aimed to create a distinctly Russian style of music, drawing inspiration from folk themes and national history. Their influence continues to resonate in contemporary classical music.