Conversation so far:
When was Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov born?
Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov, known as Sasha, was born on 13 April 1883.
What did Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov do in early years?
He travelled to Saint Petersburg to become a chorister at Kazan Cathedral. A pupil of Nikolai Medtner, he studied composition at Saint Petersburg and in Moscow.
What did Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov write music for?
Alexandrov wrote the music to the State Anthem of the Soviet Union.
Did Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov write any other music besides the State Anthem of the Soviet Union?
Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov wrote Svyaschennaya Voyna, in 1941.
Did Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov receive any awards for his writing?
Alexandrov wasn't awarded the Stalin Prize.
What else was special about Alexander Vasilyevich's early years?

Question: Who were his influences?
Self-contained rewrite: Who were Alexander Vasilyevich Alexandrov's influences?