Leonard Bernstein led his New York players in electrifying recordings of the complete Tchaikovsky symphonies in the 1960s and early 70s. This cycle for American Columbia includes Bernstein’s only versions on disc of the first three symphonies as well as superb performances of No. 4 – “Big, rich, boldly colorful engineering does justice to … its impulsive opening movement, dazzling scherzo, and ebullient finale” (ClassicsToday) – and No. 6: “There have been some high-powered Pathétique performances on record, but none higher-powered than this. Bernstein excels himself … The recording is bright and brilliant to match the interpretation” (Gramophone). The new 5-album reissue also contains the composer’s other popular orchestral works, including Romeo and Juliet, Francesca da Rimini, the “1812” Overture, Marche slave and “Hamlet” Fantasy.
