The Playful Tchaikovsky

When we mentionTchaikovsky, “playful and humorous” are not the first two words that usually come to mind.  We have his tragic Symphony No. 6, Pathétique,the final work he bequeathed us, by which to remember him.  And so, it’s interesting that in his Symphony No. 4, which begins with his famous Fate Theme – the “Sword of Damocles hanging over our heads” as he described it, he would also write some music guaranteed to bring a smile to our faces. In the delightful third movement, the members of the string section never once touch the strings of their instruments with their bows. Sixty string players can produce a most capricious, alluring sound when playing only pizzicato!

This episode is additionally sponsored by Michael and Grace Kurak.

Inside Music is made possible in part by Robert Scott, managing partner at Main Street Wealth Management in Bedminster, New Jersey.  Their team of certified and dedicated financial advisors are passionate about improving their clients’ lives. 

Additional sponsorship of Inside Music has been provided by Alfonso Finocchiaro in memory of Diana Finocchiaro.