Photo by Flagstaffotos [CC BY-NC]
Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky composed the 1812 Overture. It commemorates the successful Russian defence against Napoleon’s Invading Grande Armée
It was first performed on 20 August 1882. In the unfinished Cathedral Church of Christ the Saviour in Moscow. (The cathedral commissioned by Tsar Alexander to commemorate the victory)
Tchaikovsky himself conducted the work at the dedication of Carnegie Hall in New York on 5 May 1891
The full title of the 15 minute piece is: The Year 1812 Solemn Overture, Festival Overture in E-flat major. Op. 49. It is best known for its climactic volley of cannon fire, ringing chimes and brass fanfare
