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Peter Tchaikovsky - Composer of all Genres

Even those not familiar with the composer Tchaikovsky will recognize much of his work. He created such notable ballets as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, and the holiday classic, The Nutcracker. Tchaikovsky was born on May 10, 1840 in Votkinsk, Russia. He started taking piano lessons when he was only five and continued his education at the School of Jurisprudence. At age 14, Tchaikovsky composed his first waltz and at 18 began working with the Ministry of Justice.

Tchaikovsky the Professor

Tchaikovsky left this position and returned to his studies full-time at the St. Petersburg Conservatory with Nikolai Zaremba, another Russian composer as his professor. After graduating, Tchaikovsky gladly accepted a position as a music professor. He remained a professor for 10 years, simultaneously composing and eventually conducting, as well.

Coming to America

Tchaikovsky came to America in 1891 for a tour during which he conducted his own works. The tour included the already well known Carnegie Hall. He died just two years later in St. Petersburg, nine days after the premier of his Sixth Symphony. Depending on the source, Tchaikovsky has been reported to have died from cholera, but diverging reports suggest suicide. His works remain famous worldwide.

Famous Works:

• The Nutcracker
• Swan Lake
• Sleeping Beauty
• Violin Concerto
• Piano Concerto No. 1
• Eugene Onegin
• Romeo and Juliet Fantasy Overture
• Symphony No. 4
• Symphony No. 5
• Symphony No. 6 (Pathetique)
• 1812 Overture