Tchaikovsky: The Nutcracker Suite

Many Romantic pieces were constructed as programme music, which was meant to tell a story. Pyotr Illyich Tchaikovsky’s work accompanied the famous ballet “The Nutcracker” to help illustrate Clara and her journey.

            Born in Russia, Tchaikovsky was not likely to be able to pursue in the field of music, but eventually found an opportunity. He sometimes found inspiration in works from Shakespeare plays, such as “Hamlet” and “The Tempest” (we all love that one.) He is also well known for composing for “Swan Lake”. After composing for “The Sleeping Beauty”, Tchaikovsky was asked to produce the score for “The Nutcracker”. 

            Many pieces in this ballet are most known specifically in “The Nutcracker Suite”, which was used in Disney’s Fantasia. My personal favorite, “Trepak”, captures the Russian aspect used in Tchaikovsky’s style. It is different from other Romantic pieces that display more raw and heavy emotion, but still captures Romantic qualities with chromatic discords and use of theme. On the other hand, “Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy” creates a lighter sound with the celesta for the principal female dancer. With the celesta, Tchaikovsky was able to create the bell-noises that go in hand with the ballerina’s short steps. This piece was used with beautiful melodic themes that are repeated in variations throughout.

            Tchaikovsky varied greatly from other successful Romantic composers such as Chopin and Beethoven, but was right there with them. Many of his works are strongly recognizable, especially during the holidays. Although he died at a young age, Tchaikovsky was able to put work out that is still enjoyed today. 

"Trepak" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qiiuN9eAy9Y

"Dance of the Sugar-Plum Fairy" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wz_f9B4pPtg

--Ashley Xu