Tchaikovsky Discovers America
What’s inside...
Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky's actual diary observations are woven into a story about shy, awkward eleven-year-old Jenny Petroff, who shares a love of music, ballet, and America with the great composer during his 1891 visit to the New World.
Discussion points
How do you think Tchaikovsky felt when he discovered new places and cultures in America?
What similarities and differences do you notice between your own experiences and Tchaikovsky’s journey?
Why do you think music is an important way to express feelings and memories?
What have you learned about overcoming challenges from Tchaikovsky’s adventures?
If you could travel like Tchaikovsky, which place would you like to visit and what would you hope to discover there?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a map to trace Tchaikovsky’s journey across America while reading to visualize the story.
Listen to some of Tchaikovsky's famous compositions together to enhance the reading experience and discuss how the music makes you feel.
Encourage your child to draw or write about a place they would like to visit, inspired by Tchaikovsky’s travels.
Share your own travel stories with your child, highlighting personal feelings and discoveries to deepen the connection with the book’s themes.
Discuss the importance of being open to new experiences and cultures, relating it to Tchaikovsky’s encounters in America.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Exploration and Curiosity
Explanation: Tchaikovsky’s journey to America highlights the theme of exploration and curiosity, showcasing his excitement and wonderment about different cultures and experiences.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to be curious about the world around them and embrace new experiences, fostering a sense of adventure and learning.
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: As Tchaikovsky discovers America, he encounters various aspects of American culture which he appreciates and learns from, teaching respect and admiration for different ways of life.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand and respect diverse cultures and perspectives, promoting inclusivity and empathy in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: Persistence and Resilience
Explanation: Throughout his adventures, Tchaikovsky faces challenges but remains determined and resilient, which contributes to his success and artistic inspiration.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of perseverance in overcoming obstacles and the value of resilience in achieving personal goals.
Example Lesson: Importance of Art and Music
Explanation: The story emphasizes Tchaikovsky’s deep connection to music and how it transcends cultural barriers, illustrating the universal language of art.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore and appreciate music and arts, enhancing their creative expression and understanding of artistic forms.
Example Lesson: Learning from Others
Explanation: Through his interactions with Americans and exposure to new experiences, Tchaikovsky learns significantly from others, highlighting the importance of learning from different people.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the value of listening to and learning from others, fostering a collaborative and open-minded approach to education and personal growth.