Search - Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky, Gennady Rozhdestvensky, London Symphony Orchestra :: Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 5, Op. 64/Capriccio Italien, Op. 45

Two worlds mesh--raw Russian emotion and cool English polish

Santa Fe Listener | Santa Fe, NM USA | 07/13/2006

(3 out of 5 stars)

"As with other entries in the LSO Live catalog, the same performance of the Tchaikovsky Fifth udner Gennadi Rozhdestvensky appears on four labels--this is an earlier incarnation from Carlton Classics. In all these recordings one expects the aura of a live concert as well as excellent sonics. Since there are dozens of versions to choose from for the Fifth, what makes this one stand out?



A lot depends on where you're coming from. Rozhdestvensky doesn't exert the supreme control of a Szell or Karajan. He lacks the genius and intensity of Mravinsky. In fact, this generally excellent conductor can be a bit faceless, as he is here. This is a straightforward Fifth palyed very well without any eccentricities. Tempos are normal, and the prevailing temperature is a bit cool after an exciting first movement. I think this CD, and its duplicates, will appeal to listeners who want the polish of the LSO with a touch of Russian rawness. In that regard it's a satisfying listen."