Tchaikovsky, Peter IlyichTchai‧kov‧sky, Pe‧ter Il‧yich /tʃaɪˈkɒfski, ˈpiːtə ˈɪlɪtʃ $ -ˈkɒːf-, ˈpiːtər/(1840–93) a Russian composer known especially for his symphonies (symphony ) and his ballets, such as Swan Lake and The Sleeping Beauty. Other well-known works are The 1812 Overture and his first piano concerto. His music is romantic, emotional, and often rather sad.