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BBC Radio 3 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced Third Programme.

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Composer of the Week

Music: Classical

Composer of the Week - Brand

An informative guide to composers' lives and their music.

An informative and accessible guide to composers' lives and their music.

Composer of the Week: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)

Composer of the Week: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893): Episode 1: A Fragile Boy

Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)

Episode 1

Episode 1: A Fragile Boy

A Fragile Boy

BBC Radio 3 - Composer of the Week, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893), A Fragile Boy

Why a career in music seemed a distant dream for the young Tchaikovsky.

Donald Macleod focuses on why a career in music seemed a distant dream for Tchaikovsky as a young civil servant.

A career in music seems a distant dream for the young civil servant. Presented by Donadl Macleod.

A sensitive, emotionally fragile boy, Tchaikovsky was sent to a boarding school where life was harsh. After leaving school, he became a government clerk in the Ministry of Justice. His disillusionment at work though eventually led to him studying music in night classes at the St Petersburg conservatoire, even though a professional career in music was rare in Russia. His studies eventually took over as his full-time occupation, and the evolution of one the greatest composers of all had started.

In the late 19th century, a number of Russian musicians were attempting to turn the tide of Western European influence, and create a new, distinctively Russian, style of music. Tchaikovsky managed to embrace both traditions. A lover of folk music, his early compositions were often inspired by national tunes. His First String Quartet was a stunning success - the second movement was an instant hit all over Europe.

Live music and the arts: broadcasts more live music than any other radio network. Classical music is its core. Genres include world and new music, jazz, speech and drama.

Donald Macleod explores the life and work of Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky

Donald Macleod explores the life and work of Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky. His output included symphonies, concertos, chamber music, operas and ballets

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Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840-1893)

Episode 1: A Fragile Boy

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