In this uplifting musical tale by the award-winning Classical Kids company, the great 19th-century composer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky arrives in America for the grand opening of New York City’s Carnegie Hall, but the building isn’t finished yet! He storms off, only to be whisked away by two kindhearted children for a musical journey to Niagara Falls. During the long train trip, Tchaikovsky tells stories about his life in Russia, his love of music, and his fear about conducting the big concert. Over tea and chocolate, the children help him compose parts of his beloved Nutcracker Suite, and in the process, everyone discovers the courage to make their dreams come true. Featuring engaging narration accompanied by glorious excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s most famous works—including Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty,and the 1812 Overture—it’s a fascinating musical exploration of Tchaikovsky’s extraordinary genius from a kid’s point of view!
Part of the Kennedy Center–wide Tchaikovsky Festival.

Experience the majestic sounds of the brass instruments in this entertaining and educational program by the NSO Brass Principals' Quintet: Martin Hackelman, horn; Steve Hendrickson and Adel Sanchez, trumpets; Milton Stevens, trombone; and David Bragunier, tuba. The music on this program goes back in time to the predecessors of the brass instruments—the conch shell—and continues through the ages to the present to include ragtime, classical, and popular music. Don't miss out on this exciting program—two performances only! Come early for hands-on fun with the Musical Instrument 'Petting Zoo'—a project of the Women's Committee for the National Symphony Orchestra.