What a strange disc! Given Jos van Immerseel’s “authentic-instrument” credentials you would expect something out of the ordinary–but “ordinary” is all we get here. These are perfectly straightforward, somewhat light-textured performances of no discernible character whatsoever. (A French colleague called these interpretations “correct”, which is not a compliment.) The symphony’s first movement moves along nicely with no dull spots, but also no especially powerful climaxes. There’s not a note out of place in the andante or scherzo, and the finale has plenty of energy if no surge of excitement in the coda. The Nutcracker Suite also enjoys a graceful and fluid performance, with some lovely work from the solo woodwinds. It’s all very well recorded–and ultimately totally forgettable. If you like your Tchaikovsky neat and tidy but little else, then this disc’s for you.
