Today in Music History, 1882: Russian composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky debuted “The Year 1812” (also known as “1812 Overture“), which depicts Napoleon’s retreat from Russia in 1812. The composition blares strains of the French national anthem “La Marseillaise” and the old Russian national anthem “God Save the Czar.”
The most famous, heavy bell ringing, brass fanfare, and real cannons, this piece of music is used frequently in American ceremonies today, particularly during Independence Day fireworks celebrations.
The most recognizable and popular section begins, in this video, at time 11:40:
