Search - Pyotr Il'yich Tchaikovsky, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, Daniele Gatti :: Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6 "Pathétique"; Serenade for Strings, Op. 48

A new Pathetique may seem superfluous given the many fine versions available, with Mravinsky (DG) and Markevitch (Philips) at the top of the heap. But Daniele Gatti easily holds his own with the best: his is perhaps the most vivid, wide-ranging sound of any. What makes Gatti's version special is his firm sense of structure, heard most clearly in his careful buildup of tension to climax points, rather than exaggeration of dynamics. He refuses to wallow in the work's pathos and sentimentality, while at the same time giving full due to its powerful emotional content. The waltz movement benefits from Gatti's accurate rhythmic control, the third, from his propulsive energy, setting up the tragic Finale, all the more moving as the final destination of a symphony that's better than it can seem from routine performances. The Royal Philharmonic follows his every nuance with splendid, world-class playing. The substantial Serenade for Strings, one of Tchaikovsky's most gorgeous Mozartian tributes, never sounded better than in Gatti's flowing, bright interpretation, with the RPO's strings glowing. Highly recommended, even if you have a dozen Pathetiques. --Dan Davis