| Timeline |
| 1829 |
Born 28 November in Wekhwotinech, Russia |
| 1839 |
Makes his debut in Moscow at the age of eleven |
| 1840 |
Begins concert tour of Europe, attracting the attention and admiration of Chopin and Liszt |
| 1844 |
Studies music theory in Berlin with his brother for two years |
| 1846 |
On returning to Russia his music-scores are mistaken for a revolutionary manifest written down in a mysterious code. The compositions were confiscated and only through the help of influential friends does escape expulsion to Siberia |
| 1846 |
Settles in Vienna for two further years of study, mainly the piano and composition |
| 1848 |
Attains the position of court pianist in St. Petersburg |
| 1859 |
Under the patronage of the Grand Duchess Elena Pavlovna, founds the Russian Music Society |
| 1862 |
Establishes the first system of professional musical training at a new Conservatory in St. Petersburg |
| 1867 |
Resigns his directorship of the Imperial Conservatory |
| 1871 |
Directs the Vienna Philharmonic concerts |
| 1872 |
Tours the U.S. |
| 1887 |
Resumes directorship of the Imperial Conservatory continues to hold the post until 1891 |
| 1888 |
Tsar awards him the title of "Excellenz" for his "useful work in the progress of musical education in Russia" |
| 1894 |
Dies 20 November in Peterhof, Russia |
