Russia Part 2: Classical Music Around The World

In Part 2 of my focus on Russian classical music, I hope to give you a taste of great music written after the Mighty Handful. (Who are they? Read about them in Part 1) 

Tchaikovsky

First, we should look at Pyotr (Peter) Tchaikovsky. He is known for a wide array of romantic music and particularly, ballet. Although he lived around the same time as The Five, he didn't care much for their music. Nonetheless, he remained friendly with them and continued to create his own style. Today we frequently heard Tchaikovsky's music in two ways. First, we hear his symphonies in concerts. I've included the 2nd movement from Symphony No. 5. Second, we see his ballets performed frequently. The Nutcracker is a Christmas tradition for many families, and young ballet students will often find themselves cast in the dance ensembles. Swan Lake, another of Tchaikovsky's ballets, was far more successful, and I've included samples in the playlist.

Stravinsky

After Tchaikovsky, we should look at one of the most influential composers of the 20th century, Igor Stravinsky (1882 - 1971). Born near Saint Petersburg, he studied composition with Nicholai Rimsky-Korsokov and became well known for his ballets. He made his biggest splash in the music world with the premiere of his ballet, The Rite of Spring. His use of dissonance caused some of the audience to hate it and some to love it, and in turn, they began to argue and riot at the Paris Opera House in 1913. 

Shostakovich

In 1917 a revolution changed the course of Russian history for the next 70 years, and a communist government began to control what music could be made. At the same time, the government valued the cultural contribution of music, and the arts and many composers were encouraged to continue creating. Dimitri Shostakovich (1906 - 1975) created through these years and balanced his creative energy with the confines of making music approved by the communist government. I have included the final and very exciting movement from Shostakovich's 5th Symphony.

Prokofiev

Sergei Prokofiev (1891 - 1953) is another notable composer. Every year children's concerts are performed around the world with his work, Peter and the Wolf. Beyond this beautiful introduction to the orchestra, he contributed much to the world of art and music by advancing the neoclassical style. Included in the playlist, is his Symphony No. 1. As you first listen, you may mistake this with a work from Mozart or Haydn, but I assure you it is not.

Red Army Choir

Lastly, music in communist Russia was used for the purpose of the government and no trip to Russia would feel complete without hearing songs from the Red Army Choir. Enjoy these thoroughly Russian songs.

Next week, I will highlight spooky music for Halloween. For more great information about Classical Music follow M3 Creative Academy on Facebook and Instagram.