‘Italy, Florence – nothing gives me the slightest pleasure so far’ Tchaikovsky wrote to his brother. ‘I cannot live outside Russia’.

In the depth of depression, the composer commenced work on his sextet Souvenir de Florence, and completed it upon his return to Russia in June 1890. Melancholy Russian folk melodies mingle with Tchaikovsky’s Florentine theme rising in the Adagio. Maybe he did have an affection for the city after all?

His 6th Symphony (Pathétique), described by Tchaikovsky as his finest work, is a striking example of his inner turmoil and artistic brilliance. Tragically, he passed away just days after conducting its premiere, during the cholera pandemic sweeping Russia.

Now in his fourth season as Chief Conductor with the Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra, Domingo Hindoyan enjoys a vibrant career leading acclaimed ensembles and orchestras around the world.