Valery Aleksandrovich Gavrilin (17 August 1939 – 28 January 1999) was a prominent Soviet and Russian composer, recognized as a People's Artist of the RSFSR in 1985. Born in Vologda, his early life was marked by personal tragedy, as his father died during the Siege of Leningrad and his mother was imprisoned when he was just 10 years old, leading to his upbringing in an orphanage. Gavrilin's musical talents were nurtured at a young age, leading him to study clarinet, piano, and composition in Leningrad. He graduated from the Leningrad Conservatory, where he studied under Orest Evlakhov and F.A. Rubtsov.

Gavrilin gained recognition with his vocal cycle, the Russian Notebook, and continued to contribute to the world of music as a teacher at the Conservatory. He frequently collaborated with director Aleksandr Arkadevich Belinskiy in television and film. His notable works include the ballets "Anyuta" and "House on the Road," and operas such as "The Sailor and the Rowan Tree." Gavrilin's contributions to orchestral music include symphonic suites and an Adagio for Strings.

He passed away in Saint Petersburg in 1999 after suffering two severe heart attacks. In his memory, the asteroid 7369 Gavrilin was named in his honor. His 70th birth anniversary was celebrated with a festival featuring concerts in several Russian cities.