Who was Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky?
This page was developed by North Central Ballet to introduce students to Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky (1840–1893), the celebrated Russian composer whose music brings The Nutcracker to life.
Tchaikovsky’s compositions — known for their sweeping melodies, emotional depth, and vivid storytelling — include Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker. His music captures both elegance and drama, making it a perfect match for the art of ballet.
In The Nutcracker, Tchaikovsky used a wide range of instruments and musical colors to represent characters and moods: the delicate celesta sparkles for the Sugar Plum Fairy, bold brass drives the battle scene, and flowing strings paint the swirling Snowflakes.
Below, you can listen to several of his most famous pieces from The Nutcracker and other works. Teachers are encouraged to share these recordings with students as they explore the story, characters, and choreography of this timeless ballet.
Listen and Learn
Start by exploring some of Tchaikovsky’s most memorable works from The Nutcracker and beyond.
Each piece captures a unique moment in the story — from Clara’s dreamlike waltz to the Sugar Plum Fairy’s delicate dance.
As you listen, encourage students to imagine the scenes, characters, and emotions the music conveys.
The Nutcracker Suite Listening Guide
Overture- Tchaikovsky opens The Nutcracker with a light, sparkling overture that sets the mood for Clara’s magical Christmas Eve adventure. The music twinkles like lights on a tree — full of excitement and wonder. Listen HERE
March- This bright, energetic march captures the feeling of a grand holiday celebration. It’s the sound of toy soldiers and children dancing beneath the glow of a Christmas tree. Listen HERE
Waltz of the Snowflakes- This breathtaking finale to Act I paints a musical picture of swirling snow and graceful winter dancers. Listen for the chorus of voices that make the snowstorm sound alive. Listen HERE
Russian Dance (Trepak)- Fast and lively, this traditional Russian dance bursts with energy and rhythm — a favorite moment for audiences of all ages! Listen HERE
Arabian Dance- Smooth and mysterious, this slow, mesmerizing piece creates an exotic atmosphere using rich strings and woodwinds. Listen HERE
Chinese Dance- Light and playful, this dance features quick rhythms and bright percussion that sound like a cheerful celebration. Listen HERE
Waltz of the Flowers- Graceful and sweeping, this waltz grows from a single note into a full, blooming melody — one of Tchaikovsky’s most famous creations. Listen HERE
Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy- Played on the celesta, a keyboard instrument that sounds like bells, this delicate melody was written to represent the shimmering grace of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Listen HERE
