Final answer:
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky was the leading ballet composer of the later 19th century, known for iconic ballets such as Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Sleeping Beauty.
Step-by-step explanation:
The leading ballet composer of the later 19th century was Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Tchaikovsky is renowned for creating some of the most famous ballet scores in the history of classical music, such as Swan Lake, The Nutcracker, and Sleeping Beauty. His work remains pivotal in the world of ballet and is integral to the classical repertoire, showcasing the expressive potential of orchestral music paired with the art of dance.
During the 19th century, the Romantic era flourished, producing composers like Brahms, Schumann, Chopin, and Wagner. However, Tchaikovsky's contribution to ballet music was unparalleled in this era. Unlike Igor Stravinsky, who was a significant figure in the early 20th century, Tchaikovsky epitomized the Post-Romantic era with his melodically rich compositions that carried the traditions of Russian music while pushing the boundaries of emotional expression.