Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky; 7 May 1840 [O.S. 25 April] – 6 November [O.S. 25 October] 1893[a 3]) was a Russian composer of the romantic period, whose works are among the most popular music in the classical repertoire. He was the first Russian composer whose music made a lasting impression internationally, bolstered by his appearances as a guest conductor in Europe and the United States. He was honored in 1884 by Emperor Alexander III, and awarded a lifetime pension.