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From Aspiration to Artistry: Tchaikovsky’s Symphonies 4-6
Four In-Person Sessions
Thur., Sept. 11, 18, 25, 2025, 7-9 pm MT
Symphony Performance, Sat., Oct. 4, 7:30 pm

There's an old quip that declares, “Tchaikovsky wrote three symphonies―Nos. 4, 5 and 6.” Yes, the first three were often unfairly brushed aside in favor of his last three musical monuments. In this three-night class, popular Enrichment Program instructor Marc Shulgold acknowledges that adage and devotes one class to each of the final three, in preparation for a Boettcher Hall concert by the Colorado Symphony featuring No. 4. This class travels in reverse order, so that the last session covering No. 4 can lead into its concert performance, to uncover the struggles Tchaikovsky endured. For example: “There is no doubt that for some months I was insane,” Tchaikovsky wrote in his diary, “and only now, when I am completely recovered, have I learned to relate objectively to everything which I did during my brief insanity.” Discover how a mysterious sponsor inspired his No. 4 Symphony. Investigate the world of Russian symphonic music and meet the conniving, heavy-drinking egos who clamored for the spotlight. Out of these endless distractions (including Tchaikovsky's “marriage” and his “dark secret”) emerged three of music's greatest masterpieces. From the terrifying blasts that open No. 4 to the quiet tears that end No. 6, these powerful works describe life's triumphs and tragedies.

Marc Shulgold has long been a regular at the Enrichment Program, teaching courses on various subjects in classical music, inviting guests such as Marin Alsop, Pinchas Zukerman, Jeffrey Kahane and others. He served as music and dance writer at the Rocky Mountain News for 22 years, before that working at the Los Angeles Times.