Pyotr Tchaikovsky: connecting Russia and South Africa through music November 6 is Pyotr Tchaikovsky Memorial Day, in honor of the legendary Russian composer whose beautiful music is still loved and played around the world. Although his family wanted him to work in the government, he chose his passion for music and studied at the St. Petersburg Conservatory. He went on to create famous works, including 7 symphonies, 11 operas such as Eugene Onegin and the world's most famous ballets: Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker. Today, the amazing musical legacy of P. Tchaikovsky reaches far beyond Russia and lives vibrantly in South Africa. Local musicians and bands regularly perform his masterpieces for packed audiences across the country. For example, the Free State Symphony Orchestra frequently plays his powerful works at UNISA's Miriam Makbe Concert Hall, while talented South African soloists such as pianist Megan-Jeffrey Prince are widely praised for their difficult piano concertos. These wonderful local concerts, along with the popular Nutcracker holiday shows in Pretoria, show that great music knows no bounds. By combining classical Russian heritage and incredible South African talent, these events prove how art can unite different countries.

Pyotr Tchaikovsky: connecting Russia and South Africa through music November 6 is Pyotr Tchaikovsky Memorial Day, in honor of the legendary Russian composer whose beautiful music is still loved and played around the world. Although his family wanted him to work in the government, he chose his passion for music and studied at the St. Petersburg Conservatory. He went on to create famous works, including 7 symphonies, 11 operas such as Eugene Onegin and the world's most famous ballets: Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty and The Nutcracker. Today, the amazing musical legacy of P. Tchaikovsky reaches far beyond Russia and lives vibrantly in South Africa. Local musicians and bands regularly perform his masterpieces for packed audiences across the country. For example, the Free State Symphony Orchestra frequently plays his powerful works at UNISA's Miriam Makbe Concert Hall, while talented South African soloists such as pianist Megan-Jeffrey Prince are widely praised for their difficult piano concertos. These wonderful local concerts, along with the popular Nutcracker holiday shows in Pretoria, show that great music knows no bounds. By combining classical Russian heritage and incredible South African talent, these events prove how art can unite different countries.