Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov (1844-1908) needs no introduction. Rimsky-Korsakov's String Sextet in A Major was written for a competition held by the Russian Musical Society in 1876. While he did not win the first prize, he did receive an honorable mention for a work which the chamber music critic Leonid Sabaneiev described as a " youthful, entertaining piece that is full of gaiety."

 In five movements, the Sextet begins with an Allegro, the main theme to which is particularly fetching. The second subject is no less charming. Next comes a Rondo fugato to be played as scherzando. Korsakov in his biography noted that he was particularly proud of the technique he used to create a complicated six part fugue. Surprisingly, a slow movement does not come next, but a second Scherzo, vivace alla saltarello. Its pulsating rhythm gives it an energetic and lively aura. Perhaps, the high point of the Sextet comes in the Andante espressivo, the only slow movement. The main theme, presented by the first cello alone, is extraordinarily lovely. The finale, Allegro molto, provides a suitable denouement.