Symphony No. 2 in C minor, Op. 17, "Little Russian"

About

Tchaikovsky’s Second Symphony was composed in 1872 (revised 1879-80) is an upbeat and joyful affair. Containing three Ukrainian folk songs, it was a nod to Russian nationalism, as Ukraine at the time was known as “Little Russia.” Movements one, two and four include the folk songs, and the third takes elements from all the others, giving a folksy feel. The finale was written at Tchaikovsky’s sister’s estate. Tchaikovsky credited the true inspiration to the last piece to the Butler of the estate, who had sung the folk song to Tchaikovsky while he composed. It was premiered again by Nikolai Rubinstein's orchestra in Moscow in 1973, and it's reception beckoned three further performances in the following months.