Here, investigate key elements of Tchaikovsky’s musical sensibility: his adherence to Western compositional principles, his Slavic temperament, and his dazzling melodic gifts. In the Violin Concerto’s opening, hear his soaring use of the solo instrument and his unusual interpretation of sonata form, allowing him to bask in the central theme through creative restatement and variations. Then, enjoy the pyrotechnical rondo, a supreme achievement in violin writing.