Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

(1840-1893)
(Pe-to-tur Ee-lee-ich Chai-kov-ski)

Pyotr Tchaikovsky is best known for his ballets and symphonies. His music uses traditional western forms and harmonies that he learned as a student at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory. However, Tchaikovsky also tried to include Russian styles, which utilized very different melodic and chord structures. Although difficult to combine at times, Tchaikovsky found a way to utilize both influences and create his own musical style which has Russian influences but is firmly within typical western forms. Due to the patronage of a wealthy benefactor, Tchaikovsky was able to quit his government job in order to compose full-time. Throughout his life, Tchaikovsky struggled with depression and personal crises, all the while creating timeless pieces of music that are still enjoyed today. He became the first Russian composer to be well-known outside of his country and his ballets, especially The Nutcracker, are perennial audience favorites.

Important Works

• Swan Lake

• The Nutcracker

• Romeo and Juliet

• Eugene Onegin

• 1812 Overture

• Symphony No. 1

• Symphony No. 6, Pathétique

Further Listening