Album for the young , Op.39, is a collection of 24 short piano pieces composed by Pyotr Tchaikovsky in 1878. The pieces are simple and tuneful, designed to be played by children and beginners.
Each piece has a descriptive title, such as ‘Morning Prayer, ‘ ‘Waltz, ‘ and ‘The Sick Doll, ‘ which captures the mood or theme of the music. The pieces are mostly in major keys and have a gentle, lyrical character.
Despite being intended for children, the pieces are not simplistic or trivial. Tchaikovsky’s skill as a composer is evident in the variety of textures, rhythms, and harmonies that he employs throughout the collection.
Album for the young, Op.39, is a charming and accessible introduction to Tchaikovsky’s music, both for young pianists and for anyone who appreciates his gift for melody and expression.
