2. Three choruses a capella. Composed at Frolovskoe, and dedicated to I. A. Melnikov’s “Gratuitous Choral Class.” Published in Melnikov’s Collection of Russian Choruses.
Besides the above, Tchaikovsky finished the sketches of the Nut-cracker Ballet and of the opera of Iolanthe.
1891-1892
1. Op. 78. The Voyevode, symphonic ballad, for full orchestra (after Poushkin). First performance under the direction of the composer, at a concert given by Siloti, November 6th (18th), 1891. The following day Tchaikovsky himself destroyed the score of this work, the band parts remaining in Siloti’s keeping. After the composer’s death the score was restored from the parts and published by Belaiev.
2. Op. 69. Iolanthe. Lyrical opera in one act. The subject founded on the drama, King René’s Daughter, by the Danish poet, Henrik Herz. The libretto by Modeste Tchaikovsky. First performed in Petersburg in the Maryinsky Theatre, December 6th (18th), 1892. Published by Jurgenson. See [Appendix B.]
3. Op. 70. “Souvenir de Florence.” Sextet for two violins, two violas, and two violoncellos, in four movements. Dedicated to the Petersburg Chamber Music Society. First performance by this society November 25th (December 7th), 1892. Published by Jurgenson.
4. Op. 71. The Nut-cracker. Fairy Ballet in two acts and three scenes. The subject is borrowed from A. Dumas’ version of Hoffman’s fairy tale. The following programme was suggested to Tchaikovsky by the gifted ballet-master, Petipa:—
No. 1. Soft music. Sixty-four bars.
No. 2. The tree is lit up. Sparkling music. Eight bars.
No. 3. Enter the children. Animated and joyous music. Twenty-four bars.