What was a common feature of nationalist composers from Russia in their compositions?

A common feature of nationalist composers from Russia in their compositions was the incorporation of folk melodies. This practice not only celebrated national identity but also connected their music to the cultural and historical context of their homeland. By integrating traditional folk tunes and motifs, these composers sought to evoke a sense of nationalism and authenticity, often using regional scales, rhythms, and harmonic structures characteristic of Russian folk music. This approach helped to distinguish Russian classical music from that of Western European traditions, creating a unique sound that resonated with audiences and reinforced a sense of cultural pride.

While the other options might reflect aspects of music composition in various contexts or regions, they do not specifically highlight the defining characteristic found in the works of Russian nationalist composers. For instance, dissonance and polyphony are significant in many types of music, but their use is not uniquely tied to Russian nationalism in the same way that folk melodies are. Similarly, while opera was an important genre, not all nationalist composers focused primarily on operatic works. Incorporating folk melodies remains the hallmark of this nationalist movement.