Tchaikovsky's visit to New York was indeed newsworthy. He was one of the most well recognized composers in the world, which is why he was invited to perform at the opening of Carnegie Hall. Tchaikovsky was arguably more famous in the United States than he was in his native Russia. He kept a journal during his travels and wrote "It turns out that in America I'm ten times more famous than in Europe. At first, I thought it was an exaggerated courtesy. Now I see it's true...I'm much more of celebrity here than in Russia!"

Everywhere he went, Tchaikovsky was recognized, asked for autographs, given flowers, etc. When he first came to America, The Baltimore Sun published quite a descriptive announcement. They referred to him as a celebrated Russian composer, alluded to his forthcoming performance at Carnegie Hall, and then provided a through description of the man: "He wears his hair, which is almost white, fairly long, but not noticeably so. he has large blue eyes, a well-formed nose, fresh complexion and a mustache. He does not appear to be more than forty-five years old. He is fifty-one. He has the easy and affable manner of a cultivated Russian gentleman." Tchaikovsky's arrival was highly anticipated and well publicized. The New York Times insisted that the "feature of the festival which is of the highest interest is the participation in four of the concerts of Mr. Tschaikowsky." People were eager to see him, meet him, watch him perform. Tchaikovsky's visit was quite the event.