Overview
Introduction
The Valse-Scherzo in A major for solo piano, Op. 7 (TH 129 ; ČW 105), was written at the beginning of 1870 in Moscow. It should not to be confused with the later Valse-Scherzo in the same key, dating from 1889.
Movements and Duration
There is one movement (A major, 306 bars), without a tempo marking. A complete performance lasts around 4 to 5 minutes.
Composition
The only information concerning the composition of this work is found in a letter of 5/18 February 1870 from Tchaikovsky to his sister Aleksandra Davydova: "This past winter I have been quite busy as a composer. Three days ago I sent two piano pieces to be printed , one of which is dedicated to you. As soon as it comes out, I shall send you a copy straight away" .
Publication
The Valse-Scherzo was published by Pyotr Jurgenson in April 1870. In 1946 it was included in volume 51Б of Tchaikovsky's Complete Collected Works, edited by Ivan Shishov.
Dedications
The work is dedicated to the composer's younger sister, Aleksandra Davydova.
