What is NOT true about Musorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition (1874)?

The assertion that Pictures at an Exhibition moves towards devices that represent 'primitive' man is not true regarding Musorgsky's work. Musorgsky composed the piece as a suite of piano pieces that was later orchestrated by Rimsky-Korsakov. Its main concept revolves around an exhibition of artworks by the artist Viktor Hartmann, each movement inspired by specific pieces of visual art, effectively creating a musical gallery.

The piece is structured to convey a narrative that correlates with the viewing of artwork, as each movement reflects the emotion or idea behind Hartmann's pieces. The orchestral version has indeed become a standard part of the classical repertoire, celebrated for its colorful orchestration and vivid imagery, thus indicating its lasting relevance in concert performances.

In contrast, the idea of representing 'primitive' man does not align with the thematic core or intent of Musorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition. The movements are instead manifestations of artistic representation and imaginative storytelling, completely separated from any primitive thematic devices.