Composer

:

Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky

Genre

:

Symphony

Style

:

Symphony

Compose Date

:

1872

Average_duration

:

33:39

Movement_count

:

4

Movement ....

Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky's Symphony No. 2 in C minor, also known as the "Little Russian," was composed in 1872 and premiered in Moscow on February 7, 1873. The symphony is in four movements and has a total running time of approximately 35 minutes. The first movement, marked Andante sostenuto - Allegro vivo, begins with a slow, mournful introduction before launching into a lively and energetic main theme. The second movement, marked Andantino marziale, is a march-like scherzo that features a prominent horn melody. The third movement, marked Scherzo: Allegro molto vivace, is a fast and playful dance that showcases Tchaikovsky's skill at orchestration. The final movement, marked Finale: Moderato assai - Allegro vivo, is a rousing conclusion that brings back themes from earlier in the symphony and builds to a triumphant finish. The "Little Russian" nickname comes from the fact that Tchaikovsky incorporated several Ukrainian folk songs into the symphony, particularly in the second and fourth movements. These folk melodies are woven seamlessly into the fabric of the music, giving the symphony a distinctly Russian flavor. Overall, Symphony No. 2 is a youthful and exuberant work that showcases Tchaikovsky's mastery of orchestration and his ability to blend folk influences with classical forms. While it is not as well-known as some of his later symphonies, it remains a beloved work in the classical repertoire.

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