3 Things to Know About Tchaikovsky’s Piano Concerto No. 1

The concerto is in B-flat minor, Op. 23 That is its official key, as stated in the title.

The famous opening theme is in D-flat major This key shift is a deliberate dramatic choice, not a mistake.

The contrast between keys defines the piece’s character The bright, bold D-flat major opening sets up the darker, more turbulent B-flat minor that follows.