While composing 'Variations On a Rococo Theme', Tchaikovsky sought the help of German cellist Wilhelm Fitzenhagen, his Moscow Conservatory colleague, who also gave the premiere

  Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky died on this day in 1893 from cholera, aged just 53. The notable Russian composer from the Romantic era, was the first Russian composer

  Tchaikovsky's violin showpiece, Valse-Scherzo Op. 34 premiered on this day in 1878 – 140 years ago. Polish violinist Stanisław Barcewicz gave the premiere in Paris with the Russian