This album is a live recording from the Great Hall of the Moscow Conservatory in Russia, captured on December 25, 1989.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Tchaikovsky believed his warm, living feeling for the opera's hero, Herman, was favorably reflected in the music.
Notable Performances
Pique Dame premiered at the Maryinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg on December 19, 1890, and was enthusiastically received by the public.
Composer Biography
Tchaikovsky was so moved while composing the end of Pique Dame, particularly Herman's death and the final chorus, that he wept with 'very pleasant hysteria'.
Composition History
Tchaikovsky's opera, Pique Dame, was based on Alexander Pushkin's 1834 short story of the same name, which was Pushkin's most popular work of fiction during his lifetime.
Compositional Technique
Pique Dame lies between Tchaikovsky's last two 'Fate' symphonies, echoing his Fourth and Fifth symphonies and anticipating his Sixth.
Compositional Technique
A French spirit of elegance permeates Tchaikovsky's score for Pique Dame, with elements inspired by Bizet's Carmen, such as promenading couples and boys imitating soldiers in the opening scene.
