Search - Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky, Herbert von Karajan, Berlin Philharmonic Orchestra :: Tchaikovsky: Complete Symphonies (1-6) [4 disc set]

The best Tchaikovsky boxed set of the symphonies ever

M. A. Scott | Kansas, USA | 07/25/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I've heard many of the Tchaikovsky symphonies in the different stages of Karajan career, and you simply can't go wrong with this set that was recorded from the mid to late 70's. I think the 6th and 3rd symphonies, and probably the 5th, are just about the best that could ever be recorded. There might be a few that could come close to matching this set, but it's almost impossible to surpass these superb recordings. The 5th has very fine analog sound, and is very exciting indeed. The 6th is among the loveliest I've heard, and I've heard quite a few. The 4th movement of the 6th, is quite moving, and often has brought me to tears. The movement needs a desperate hysteria, unlike a lot of versions that I heard that are played very cool and detached. The 6th also has very good sound also. The 3rd is probably hands down the best ever recorded. The 1st, 2nd, and 4th are also among the best, but there a probably a few that are better. This is the first Tchaikovsky boxed set I ever purchased, and I would never think about letting go of this great one!!!



P.S. Mr.Majeska- Are you insane to say that this DG Tchaikovsky 6th is subpar in any way. I've heard tons and tons of Sixth's and this is the most incredible version I've ever heard, so I wonder very much about your taste in at least the last Tchaikovsky Symphony (The Pathetique). That finale movement is so amazing it's beyond words to be quite honest. Karajan's Polish Symphony also is above reproach also, so buy an ounce of taste. And Ozawa is a very poor choice for the 5th, also, I might add. Check out Gerard Schwartz for Tchaikovsky's 1st and 2nd Symphonies also because they blow away Tilson-Thomas. Good day!!!!

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