Rimsky-Korsakov considered Snegurochka (The Snow Maiden) his best opera, although he felt bound to make various cuts in a score that initially was too long. The second version was first staged in St Petersburg in 1898. Orchestral excerpts include the Introduction, Dance of the Birds, Procession and Dance of the Tumblers. While the songs of the shepherd Lel' form part of Russian contralto repertoire.

Fairy Spring and Winter have a child, Snegurochka, the Snow Maiden. She is sixteen, but must still be protected from the sun- god, for if he sees her, she will die. She is to be guarded by the Wood Spirit and now goes free among the people. In the first act she vainly loves the shepherd Lel' and is pursued by the rich young Mizgir, who cancels his own wedding to Kupava. Kupava, in the second act, seeks redress from the Tsar, who, when he sees Snegurochka, offers a reward to anyone who wins her love. In the Holy Wood there is celebration, and a dance of tumblers. Lel' sings for the Tsar and is allowed to claim a kiss from any of the girls present. He chooses Kupava, while Mizgir urges his attentions on Snegurochka, his way finally barred by the Spirit of the Wood. She pleads with her mother and eventually shows her love for Mizgir. The sun-god Yarilo, however, has warmed her heart and she must die, melting away, while Mizgir drowns himself. The Tsar, however, welcomes the return of the sun.