Tchaikovsky - 1812 Overture (Ocarina of Time Soundfont)

As requested by Sr. Midi and many others, here's finally a rendition Tchaikovsky's 1812 Overture!

This concert piece is similar to Beethoven's "Wellington's Victory" in several ways; the depiction of a battle is the main focus, the use of already-established popular tunes, and the simulation (in this case a literal use) of live artillery are all here.
However, while Wellington's Victory is considered one of Beethoven's lesser works and is rarely performed nowadays, the 1812 Overture is an entirely different story, being one of Tchaikovsky's most popular and frequently played works, despite it also not being one of his most sophisticated. Its ability to thrill audiences worldwide hasn't been diminished at all with time.

The piece begins with a plaintive hymn, "O Lord, Save Thy People", depicting a prayer for the Russian victory over the French Invasion on the titular year 1812. Victory is foreshadowed by one of Tchaikovsky's most famous melodies (3:30), and the battle begins soon after.

As the battle between the Russian and French forces begins, we can hear the national anthem of France, "La Marseillaise", repeatedly clashing against Russian folk-flavored music (5:05). Twice, a beautiful contrasting theme brings relief in the middle of the struggle (6:23 and 9:37).
Near the end, as the battle reaches a fever pitch, we can hear what's by far the most notorious aspect of this work: the use of literal cannon fire (11:02). It sounds as if a French victory is imminent, but they're ultimately forced to retreat (11:15-12:01).

A loud reprise of the opening hymn (12:02) celebrates the fact that the prayers have been answered after all, with the sound of bells being added to the mix. The French are seemingly bidden farewell (12:50) and then we proceed to the overture's world-famous finale.
Tchaikovsky's delightful victory tune returns (13:01) and that is soon followed by an imposing and powerful presentation of what was back then Russia's national anthem, "God Save the Tsar!" (13:13), with some more cannon fire for good measure.

The Year 1812 Solemn Overture, Op. 49

Composer: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky

Soundfont: The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time

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