Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840 – 1893)

Given that we've mentioned Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky multiple times, it's only right that we go deeper into his musical achievements.

Rachmaninov and Prokofiev had a big influence, but Tchaikovsky was the first Russian composer to gain international renown. His path to fame, on the other hand, was far from smooth.

In the event that his musical career did not take off, he began his working life as a public servant. Thankfully, he didn't have to use this backup plan for long. A new school, the St. Petersburg Conservatory, opened when he was 21. Tchaikovsky enrolled, graduated in 1865, and hasn't looked back since.

His education was based on Western traditions, which was evident in his works, which blended parts of Russian folk music with German, Italian, and French styles. Tchaikovsky's approach placed him distinct from his countrymen, such as 'The Five.'

Symphonies, concertos, operas, ballets, and chamber music were among his works. The 1812 Overture, as well as The Nutcracker, one of his final ballets, are among his best-known works. There's also Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and so on.

You'll hear plenty of colorful, warm, and grandiose overtones in whatever Tchaikovsky composition you listen to.

Nationality: Russian