Kukol'nik, Nestor Vasil'yevich

Kukol'nik [Kúkuhneek], Nestor Vasil'yevich (9–8–1809, P.; 12–8–1868, Taganrog). Playwright, poet, and amateur comp. Was a close friend of Pushkin and Glinka and wrote the texts for some of the latter's songs (notably Farewell to Petersburg [12 romances]; M) and scenes in Ruslan (with five other writers; M). Glinka also comp. an overture, songs, and interludes for Kukol'nik's tragedy Prince Kholmsky (D2067). This musical setting was highly praised by P. Chaikovsky , who found it worthy of…