Travel Experiences of Mykola Lysenko: A Geographical Map of the Composer's Daily Life During 1867–1870

This study explores the travel experiences of Mykola Lysenko as a distinct phenomenon within the creative biography of the eminent Ukrainian composer. It characterizes Lysenko's epistolary legacy, revealing that his personal letters contain numerous impressions of his time spent in specific European cities, particularly Leipzig, where the composer studied during this period of his life. The investigation of the Ukrainian artist's impressions allows for a broader understanding of the issues pertinent to this timeframe, particularly regarding the influence of foreign travels on the composer’s life and creativity—an area that remains underexplored in existing research. A geographical map of Lysenko's travels during his time abroad, specifically while studying at the Leipzig Conservatory in Germany, has been reconstructed. It has been established that Lysenko undertook numerous journeys not only throughout Germany but also to other European cities. The study describes his travels to German cities such as Dresden and Berlin, examining the urban spaces of these cities and identifying the factors that influenced Lysenko's daily life. The interconnection between the everyday and creative spheres is emphasized, indicating that an examination of his creativity necessitates a consideration of the moments from the artist's daily life. The research reveals spatial details that surrounded the artist at the time: architectural landmarks, significant structures, transportation communications, and addresses where he resided. Works by O. Zynkevych, L. Hnatyuk, and N. Kryvets are analyzed, which provide substantial research into the everyday life of the Ukrainian composer during his studies at the Leipzig Conservatory. The examination of the composer’s daily life allows to discuss about the factors that shaped Lysenko's spatial practices, personal worldview, and artistic output. It is demonstrated that studying Lysenko's travel experiences is a promising avenue for further research. Despite the well-known fact of his studies abroad, particularly in Germany, a comprehensive understanding of the daily and spatial life of the composer during these years remains underdeveloped. This necessitates a cross-cultural perspective, which can enrich our understanding of the personality of the Ukrainian composer.