Valery Gergiev and the Kirov Orchestra emphasize the dark and dramatic side of Tchaikovsky in this stunning new recording of the Pathetique. The long-held pauses in the opening portend the gravity of what is to follow. The orchestra’s dark colors are fully fleshed out (enhanced by the recording’s somewhat dry acoustic and slightly over- reverberant bass) in the rich low-string writing that permeates this symphony. The low brass–trombones in particular–are given star billing in the dramatic climaxes, especially the heart-rending tragedy of the first movement. However, the interpretation is not all wild histrionics. Gergiev maintains a sure sense of balance and structural integrity, drawing from within the music, not imposing upon it as many Western conductors so often do. Add to this a rubato that breathes naturally in accordance with the emotional character of each passage (especially evident in the finale, where the phrases are wonderfully sculpted and the climax feels inevitable), and you have a Pathetique that joins Mravinksy and Muti (Philharmonia) as one of the greats. Romeo and Juliet shares many of these same qualities. The allegros sound wonderfully impetuous and urgent, even if they’re not rendered with that final degree of unbridled passion that Bernstein provides. A fine conclusion to a fabulous disc.
