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The 1812 Overture, Op. 49 (French: Ouverture Solennelle, L'Année 1812, Russian: Торжественная увертюра 1812-ого года, Toržestvennaja uvertjura tysjača vosem'sot dvennadstovo goda, Festival Overture The Year 1812) is a classical overture written by Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky in 1880. The piece was written to commemorate Russia's defense of Moscow against Napoleon's advancing Grande Armée at the Battle of Borodino in 1812. The Overture debuted in the Cathedral of Christ the Saviour in Moscow on August 20, 1882 (in the Gregorian or NS calendar; the date in the Julian or OS calendar was 8 August). The overture is best known for its climactic volley of cannon fire and ringing chimes.
On his 1891 visit to the United States, Tchaikovsky conducted the piece at the dedication of Carnegie Hall in New York City. While this piece has no connection with United States history, it is often a staple at Fourth of July celebrations, such as the annual show by the Boston Pops and at Washington, DC's, annual program called A Capitol Fourth.
On his 1891 visit to the United States, Tchaikovsky conducted the piece at the dedication of Carnegie Hall in New York City. While this piece has no connection with United States history, it is often a staple at Fourth of July celebrations, such as the annual show by the Boston Pops and at Washington, DC's, annual program called A Capitol Fourth.
Text:wikipedia.com
Today is also the birthday of my musical friend Manuel Whittman. He is one of the few serious musicians I know who appreciates the music of Tchaikovsky, though distinguished conductor MTT of SF Symphony is another.
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