Google's icon box includes graphic reminders of matter of import, from time to time. Today's 'box' reminds Googlers that this day would be the one-hundred and seventieth birthday of Russian-born composer, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. We are more familiar with the Anglicized spelling of Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
Musically-speaking, Tchaikovsky composed in what we know as the Romantic Period. I came to really know, and quickly love, Tchaikovsky's music when I was in college. During my years as an active symphony musician, I had the great pleasure of playing many of his symphonic works. His music never ceases to inspire, comfort, or energize me. Of course, every composer speaks to different people in differing ways. Just because I am a Tchaikovsky aficionado doesn't mean that the person sitting in his car, next to me at the stoplight, cares one whit about the same music. But, I would be willing to wager that for those who appreciate the genre of 'classical' music, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky ranks up at the top of their personal favorites' list.
The Russian composers had a corner on the market of emotion-inspired compositions, perhaps because life for them could be very harsh and they understood pathos, grief, elation, and joy. Whatever the inspiration was, the Russians knew how to massage the notes on the page to form masterful music that is unparalleled still today, coaxing the maximum effect from the ink flowing out of their quill pens
If you are not familiar with Tchaikovsky's music, I would encourage you to take a trip to the library and check out a CD, or two, of his works. Any music will do, although his symphonies are a particularly easy way to become acquainted with his musical prowess. You will not be disappointed. His works just might become a personal favorite of yours, too!
Ancora imparo
