Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky debuted his The Year 1812 Solemn Overture, Op. 49, better known as the 1812 Overture in Moscow, Russia August 20, 1880. He later conducted a performance at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
He composed it to commemorate Russia's successful defense against an invasion by Napoleon in 1812. It is best known for the finale which includes cannon fire and chimes. It has become on of his most popular works along with the Nutcracker Suite.
