Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky was a Russian composer who lived during the Romantic period. He is known for his emotionally charged music and his ability to create memorable melodies. Tchaikovsky's compositions include symphonies, ballets, operas, and concertos. His music often explores themes of love, fate, and the human condition. Tchaikovsky's works, such as his ballets 'Swan Lake' and 'The Nutcracker,' have become some of the most beloved and frequently performed pieces in the classical repertoire.