Page 39 - Phil 25-26 opening night DIGITAL program book

Spotlight on Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 2

(“Ukrainian” or “Little Russian”)

DID YOU KNOW?

Tchaikovsky’s Second Symphony draws heavily on Ukrainian folk music. He
wrote down many authentic Ukrainian folk tunes in his sketchbook after
hearing peasants sing them while he was on vacation at the family home
in Kamenka, a town located in Ukraine. (This, by the way, is the same family
home where he composed his “1812 Overture.”) The symphony’s nickname,
“Little Russian,” did not originate with the composer. It was coined by a Russian
music critic of the time, Nicholas Kashkin. Back then, Ukraine was referred
to as “Little Russia.” The term began to gain a derogatory connotation after
Tchaikovsky’s death, and now is considered offensive to Ukrainians.

WHY FOLK SONGS?

Tchaikovsky loved how folk melodies could instantly evoke a
place, a people, a feeling. In this symphony, he doesn’t just
reference Ukrainian tunes—he celebrates them. You’ll hear the
vibrancy and joy of a culture passed down through generations,
now given new life through an orchestra.

WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:

✼ First Movement: A solo horn introduces a tune called “Down by Mother
Volga.” It’s pastoral and proud—like the open steppe.

✼ Finale: Get ready for fireworks! The main theme is from “The Crane,” a
rousing wedding song that brings the symphony to a high-spirited close.

✼ Throughout: Listen for dance-like rhythms, unexpected mood shifts, and
colorful orchestration—hallmarks of Tchaikovsky’s style, shaped by the folk
music he loved.

FUN FACT:

It was premiered in 1873—the audiences loved it! But
Tchaikovsky himself wasn’t satisfied and continued revising
the piece until he finally felt it lived up to his vision.

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