Grigory Fyodorovich Lvovsky (1830-1894) was a distinguished Russian composer and violinist, recognized as a pioneer in the field of chant harmonization. Born in Kishinev, Moldavia, Lvovsky was educated at the Kishinev Theological Seminary, where he led both the seminary and local cathedral choirs. His musical talents, particularly in violin, led him to further his studies in St. Petersburg, where he earned the precentors’ diploma from the Imperial Court Chapel.

In 1856, Lvovsky returned to St. Petersburg to serve as the precentor at the St. Alexander Nevsky Lavra and later at St. Isaac’s Cathedral, positions he held until his death. His compositional work, largely focused on the Orthodox liturgy, includes over 100 pieces, most of which are based on pre-existing chants. Lvovsky was known for his strict treatment of chant melodies, preserving their modal character while enhancing them with contrapuntal lines, resulting in consonant harmonies with Renaissance-style suspensions and cadences.

Lvovsky studied theory and counterpoint under Nikolai Zaremba, a professor at the St. Petersburg Conservatory who also taught Tchaikovsky. His contributions to the harmonization of chants have left a lasting impact on Russian liturgical music. Lvovsky passed away in St. Petersburg in 1894.