Week 35: Peter Tchaikovsky

Diversity is any kind of variety that makes our world a better place.

When most people think of Russia today, they are reminded only of the rise and fall of the Communist empire. This is a shame because Russia’s history dates back a thousand years, and Russian cultural contributions to the rest of the world have been immense. This week we celebrate the cultural heritage of Russia, by commemorating the birth of Peter Tchaikovsky in 1840 in Votkinsk, Russia.

Tchaikovsky composed the music for three of the most famous ballets of all time: Swan Lake, the Sleeping Beauty, and the Nutcracker. His works achieved greatness in part because he composed melodies that perfectly matched the physical movements of the ballet dancers.

Many historians of music view Tchaikovsky’s work as a masterful blend of the musical traditions of Western Europe and Russia. This is a recurring theme across humanity: the creation of works that are beautiful, meaningful, and lasting when different worlds meet.

Remember, you don’t have to travel as far as Votkinsk, Russia to find diversity. There are hundreds of opportunities to celebrate diversity right here at your own school. Find one today!