[Tchaikovsky] Pick up famous and representative pieces!
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, a towering composer who represents Romantic-era Russia.
From ballet music such as Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty to works like the Piano Concerto No.
1 and several symphonies, he created numerous masterpieces that continue to be loved to this day.
Tchaikovsky’s music conveys richly colored, delicate melodies and a brilliant, dramatic musicality.
In this article, we introduce Tchaikovsky’s celebrated and representative works.
We’ve selected pieces ranging from famous tunes to lesser-known gems worthy of being called masterpieces—be sure to check them out!
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[Tchaikovsky] Picked Masterpieces and Signature Works! (1–10)
Divine Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom, Op. 41Pyotr Tchaikovsky
An unaccompanied mixed-chorus piece for Orthodox prayer composed in 1878, it was also sung at Tchaikovsky’s funeral.
Working on church music brought Tchaikovsky great joy, but it seems to have been little appreciated by the church authorities.
It’s recommended when you want to listen to Tchaikovsky’s works beyond his orchestral and piano music.
Miniature Overture from The Nutcracker (ballet music)Pyotr Tchaikovsky
As indicated by the word “Miniature,” this overture that opens the ballet The Nutcracker is a very charming piece.
The cellos and double basses never appear, and the low-register wind instruments also sit out.
It’s a somewhat unusual work, scored only for mid- and high-range instruments.
Violin Concerto in D major, Op. 35Pyotr Tchaikovsky
Although it is considered a masterpiece today, when this piece was first completed it was harshly criticized by many performers and critics.
However, the Russian violinist Brodsky quickly recognized its true value, and as he performed it around the world, it gradually received high acclaim.
In the third movement, you can hear the Russian folk dance Trepak, which also appears in The Nutcracker.
[Tchaikovsky] A selection of famous and representative works (11–20)
Symphony No. 5, Op. 64Pyotr Tchaikovsky
It’s a popular symphony affectionately known as “Chai 5” in amateur orchestras.
The horn solo in the second movement is exquisitely beautiful, delivering a romantic melody.
The rousing finale of the fourth movement is a big favorite among student orchestras.
Every movement is easy to listen to.
Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique,” Op. 74Pyotr Tchaikovsky
This is Tchaikovsky’s final symphony.
The clarinet’s ppp in the first movement is absolutely electrifying, and the ensuing full-orchestra fff pierces you to the core—an exhilarating masterpiece without a doubt.
The third movement feels cheerful, but in contrast, the fourth movement conveys a sense of the weight of life.
Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy from The Nutcracker (ballet music)Pyotr Tchaikovsky
Tchaikovsky’s ballet music The Nutcracker, premiered in 1892.
This piece is one of the most popular numbers from the work.
It is known as one of the earliest compositions to use the celesta, a new instrument at the time.
With its light, dreamlike atmosphere and transparent timbre, it beautifully captures a fantastical and delicate character.
It is frequently performed around the Christmas season worldwide and is also used in various media such as films and commercials.
There’s even an anecdote that Tchaikovsky, captivated by the sound of the celesta, kept its existence secret so other composers wouldn’t find out about it.
It’s a highly recommended piece not only for classical music fans but also for those interested in ballet and film music.
Scene from the ballet music Swan LakePyotr Tchaikovsky
When it comes to Tchaikovsky’s ballet music, Swan Lake comes to mind.
And when you think of Swan Lake, many people probably picture the oboe solo from the Scene.
It’s a beautiful piece in which the plaintive, lovely tone of the oboe pairs perfectly with the harp accompaniment in the background.