Search - Various :: Tchaikovsky: Winter Dreams, Symphonies 1 and 2

A Young Russian

03/10/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"These colorful selections are a remarkable feature of Tchaikovsky's otherwise troubled life. Symphony No. 1, the lesser known of the two, is a bold experiment of setting Winter Landscapes to music. The first movement is a brash setting of unique orchestra colors and the slow movement is also especially moving. The Second Symphony, "Little Russian", is truly russian sounding, and you can hear the angst that Tchaikovsky is trying to evoke. The last movement contains a glorious and climactic ending destined to rouse any ill-tempered spirit. This symphony is a fine example of what tchaikovsky will sound like when he writes his famous 5th and 6th symphonies.Gerard Schwarz gets the most out of the Seattle Symphony through speedy tempos and great dynamic contrast in all movements. Do not pass up a chance to hear these finely programmed Tchaikovsky gems."

A Performance that Sizzles

Sheldon Lichter | Eugene, OR | 05/29/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Here are my two favorite Tchaikovsky symphonies done to a turn. They
are sheer delight all the way through for the clarity and energy and
balance of the performances, as well as for the music itself, of
course. For those not familiar with these works, this is not the
Tchaikovsky of later years of serious and portentous bearing: passion,
longing, sorrow, determination, triumph, and resignation. This early
music is more like the ballets, full of imagination and fantasy, yet
strong of fiber. This wonderful American orchestra under Maestro
Schwarz has given us much to be grateful for, not least a good helping
of our own American music, and here is yet another plum. In my
experience, powerfully wrought without brashness; gorgeously rendered
without degenerating into mere prettiness. It really dances. I love
it.
"