How did Tchaikovsky become a musician?

Tchaikovsky began his musical journey at a young age, receiving piano lessons from his mother and later formal training at the Saint Petersburg Conservatory. Although he initially pursued a career in law, his passion for music ultimately led him to embrace composition full-time. His talent was nurtured through study and experience, and he quickly gained recognition for his unique style, blending Russian folk themes with Western classical traditions. This transition marked the beginning of his prolific career as a composer, producing iconic works that would establish him as one of the greats in Classical Music.