[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] Pick Up His Masterpieces and Signature Works! (161–170)
Symphony No. 3 in D major “Polish,” Op. 29Pyotr Tchaikovsky
It is said that the subtitle “Poland” comes from the use of the traditional Polish dance, the polonaise, in the finale.
The piece opens with an introduction imbued with darkness, beginning with a funeral march, and gradually a brightness emerges as if dispelling the gloomy clouds.
In the fifth and final movement, after layering rhythms that seem to climb upward, it concludes in brilliant fashion.
Symphony No. 5Pyotr Tchaikovsky
Composed in 1888, this symphony is a popular work that is still frequently performed today.
Although Tchaikovsky initially did not feel attached to the piece, he gradually gained confidence in it in response to the audience’s reception.
From the dramatic motifs that emerge in the introduction, melodies played by various instruments—such as the horn and oboe—make their appearance, giving the work a rich and nuanced character.
Symphony No. 6 “Pathétique”Pyotr Tchaikovsky
A work premiered nine days before Tchaikovsky died of cholera.
It consists of four movements, and an elegiac darkness pervades the entire piece.
In the fourth movement, which reportedly shocked audiences at its premiere, a hesitant melody surges into a sudden, sweeping exaltation, and then ends like a leaf gently falling.
It’s a recommended piece for moments when you want to indulge in solitary sentiment.
Overture “1812”Pyotr Tchaikovsky
It’s a piece depicting the battle between the French and Russian armies, featuring multiple cannon shots throughout the music.
The French and Russian national anthems are interwoven with a lively melody, creating such a vivid portrayal that it commands admiration.
The cello melody at the beginning is also beautiful.
Serenade for Strings in C major, Op. 48Pyotr Tchaikovsky
A work said to have been composed with Mozart’s beloved serenades in mind.
One moment it grips the listener with a tragic melody; the next, a light, flowing sonata and an elegant waltz give way to successive bursts of rough intensity.
It’s a piece that holds your attention from start to finish without ever becoming dull.
Capriccio Italien, Op. 45Pyotr Tchaikovsky
An orchestral piece composed in 1880.
It is said that Tchaikovsky, deeply moved by the local culture and climate during a visit to Italy to heal the wounds of his failed marriage, subsequently created this work.
The piece evokes the radiant sunlight and a sense of openness.
“Neapolitan Dance” from the ballet music Swan LakePyotr Tchaikovsky
At the castle party in Swan Lake, the Neapolitan dance is a piece where the trumpet takes center stage.
Its sound rings out boldly and brilliantly, yet with elegance and nobility, resonating with a beautiful, expansive tone.
It makes you realize that the trumpet can produce such pure, pristine sound.