December 18

The Russian Imperial anthem 'God Save the Tsar!' was first performed in 1833 in Saint Petersburg. Commissioned by Tsar Nicholas I, the music was composed by Alexei Lvov with lyrics by Vasily Zhukovsky. The anthem reflected the autocratic and sacred nature of the Tsar’s authority and became a symbol of national unity. It was sung at court ceremonies, military parades, and official events throughout the 19th century. The stirring melody and solemn lyrics reinforced loyalty to the monarchy. This anthem remained in use until the Russian Revolution of 1917.

On December 18, 1892, The Nutcracker, composed by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, debuted at the Mariinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg. Commissioned by Ivan Vsevolozhsky and originally choreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, the ballet showcased Tchaikovsky's lyrical melodies and inventive orchestrations. Despite an lukewarm initial reception, the production introduced iconic pieces like the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Waltz of the Flowers. Over the 20th century, The Nutcracker grew into a beloved holiday tradition worldwide, enchanting audiences each Christmas season. Its imaginative story of Clara's magical journey and the Land of Sweets has inspired countless adaptations in dance, film, and literature. Tchaikovsky's richly textured score remains one of the most performed and recorded works in classical music repertoire.