A little clip of a relatively obscure Tchaikovsky piece for solo piano. This is the first movement of the piano suite titled: Souvenir de Hapsal, Op. 2. The movement is titled: Ruines d’un château (which translates directly as “ruins of a castle”). This is my performance from December 2022.
Tchaikovsky composed this piece in 1867 when he was still relatively young, about 27 years old. For reference, Tchaikovsky passed away in 1893. The piece was inspired by his stay in the region of Hapsal, which is now present day Estonia.
The piece is written in ternary form (ABA form). The A section, some of which is shown above, seems to depict this abandoned castle in its current, derelict state. The music is reflective of a funeral march. Also, the way the notes fit in your hand, it makes your right hand feel like a spider crawling slowly in a web somewhere inside the castle.
It’s a beautiful and haunting work and a clear example of how Tchaikovsky is able to evoke strong images and feelings within his melodies. It probably helps that he was one sad homosexual. And so am I. 🖤 Much love to our boy, Pytor, during this pride month.
- Doux et Triste (Sammy) 🦇