Tchaikovsky's relationship with Nadezhda von Meck was unique; they never met face to face, and their liaison ended in 1890.
Composer's Artistic Vision
Tchaikovsky's music synthesizes the West European compositional style, taught by Anton Rubinstein, with elements from the Russian nationalist school.
Composer Biography
Financial support from Nadezhda von Meck, a rich widow, allowed Tchaikovsky to leave the Conservatory and dedicate himself entirely to composition.
Historical Context
Tchaikovsky's death in 1893 was officially attributed to cholera, but it is now believed he was forced to take his own life to avoid scandal over an alleged homosexual relationship.
Composer Biography
Tchaikovsky initially studied at the School of Jurisprudence in St. Petersburg and worked in the Ministry of Justice, with music as a secondary occupation.
Composer Biography
Tchaikovsky's full-time music education began at the new Conservatory of Music in St. Petersburg, founded by Anton Rubinstein.
Composition History
Tchaikovsky initially regarded his Fifth Symphony as a failure, despite its considerable success at its premiere in St. Petersburg in 1888.
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