Search - Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky, Charles Mackerras, London Symphony Orchestra :: Tchaikovsky: Nutcracker (Favorite Excerpts from the Original Soundtrack Recording)

Family Favorite

Tracy H. Slagter | Oshkosh, WI | 12/03/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I asked for this particular recording on cassette after watching the Pacific Northwest Ballet's production of "The Nutcracker" on television many years ago. Since then, I have heard many different renditions of Tchaikovsky's score, but none compare to this recording. Mackerras and the London Symphony work together in such a way that the ballet comes alive in one's imagination; the tempo is perfect, and the drama is evident.This CD of excerpts is good for someone unfamiliar with the ballet -- it gives all the highlights. It's also great for someone unfamiliar with the works of Tchaikovsky, for I find it's very representative of his work (and I think it's his best overall).This CD is now part of my family's tradition -- played while we decorate the tree and during Christmas Eve dinner. In fact, I'm buying another copy for my Mom, since the cassettes have seen better days! This is easy to integrate into your holiday music collection, and is guaranteed to put you into a festive holiday mood."