In 1840, Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, Russian composer, was born on this day.  Here are some of the most important facts of his life found @ Encyclopedia Brittanica. 

Some of Tchaikovsky most popular works include the Nutcracker, a classic ballet at Christmas time, the 1812 Overture,  and The  Magician’s apprentice which was made famous as background music in cartoons.

1812 Overture background music for an American history pictorial

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