Tchaikovsky: The Great Ballets - CD

ENGLISH

<br><br>A superb set that brings together the very best of Ansermet’s Decca Tchaikovsky recordings. As well as the three great ballet scores, the 6th Symphony receives a wonderful reading. This conductor in this repertoire in classic Decca recordings can still stand comparison with the latest versions in the catalogue. <br /> <br /> "A wonderful display of consummate 'cello playing. The recording is faultless." Gramophone, reviewing the Rococo Variations in March 1954. "Ansermet's set is skilfully put together, and conducted with real sympathy and penetration, not as a ballet but (I mentioned this when discussing his versions of Tchaikovsky's other full-length ballets) as a dramatic tone poem. It's full of endearing human touches—the knitters, the young Aurora, the two white cats, and the wicked ogre", Gramophone review for Sleeping Beauty, November 1959. "It is good to have this long-esteemed version of Swan Lake available again, with the sound brushed up to something very near to modern standards…As such it is recommended strongly." Gramophone review of Swan Lake November 1978.<br /> <br /> "Ansermet, as we would expect, holds our attention with his reading…Ansermet secures very expressive phrasing from his violas, especially in the descending phrase at the close of the first paragraph, and the ascending one which closes the first subject-group. More than most conductors, he makes the three statements of the second subject sound quite different in emotion : as of a joy and consolation hesitantly accepted (muted strings), unashamedly welcomed (UN-muted strings), and then tenderly considered (clarinet solo). The development section cracks in with exciting effect. The narrow-toned brass is fiery here, and very well recorded" (Gramophone reviewing Symphony No.6, June 1957).<br /> <br /> Other information:<br /> - Of interest to ballet lovers, and anyone who appreciates the artistry of this great conductor.