wnyc.org / 93.9fm / am 820

Frequently derided as a patchwork of bombastic clichés, Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” is nonetheless a well-crafted, brilliantly orchestrated work—and staple of July Fourth fireworks celebrations everywhere. But while it may seem as American as apple pie, it was composed to commemorate the victory of Russia in the Napoleonic Wars of 1812. Today on Soundcheck, Pittsburgh-based music critic Andrew Druckenbrod talks with John Schaefer about how the work caught on during the height of the Cold War.
Additional Resources:
» “How a rousing Russian tune took over our July 4th”
    by Andrew Druckenbrod
» July Fourth Concert Celebrations
» Phil Kline's Zippo Songs
» New Sounds Program #2249
» More on Phil Kline's Zippo songs