Tchaikovsky: Symphonies Nos. 4, 5 & 6
Recorded at Salle Pleyel, Paris on 25, 26 & 29 January 2010
Tchaikovsky:
- Symphony No. 4 in F minor, Op. 36
- Symphony No. 5 in E minor, Op. 64
- Symphony No. 6 in B minor, Op. 74 ‘Pathétique’
Mariinsky Orchestra, conducted by Valery Gergiev
Valery Gergiev is widely recognized as the greatest modern interpreter of Tchaikovsky’s music and the Mariinsky Orchestra holds a strong reputation in this repertoire. Together they deliver definitive interpretations of Tchaikovsky’s most popular symphonies. These acclaimed performances were filmed at Salle Pleyel in Paris during January 2010.
The themes of tragedy and death pervade Tchaikovsky’s final symphonies. The composition of the Fourth Symphony coincided with the breakdown of Tchaikovsky’s marriage and a failed suicide attempt, yet he considered it to be his greatest work. In contrast he believed his fifth symphony to be weak, yet today this heartfelt work is widely regarded as one of his finest. The subject of fate is further reflected in the Sixth Symphony, premiered shortly before Tchaikovsky’s death. It was posthumously entitled ‘Pathétique’ by his brother and is a deeply melancholy work, full of dynamic extremes and an inherent sense of finality.
My own favorite is the Symphony #5; The reason is a very personal one: I was a member of an orchestra in New York many years ago, and I recall all the struggles in learning to perform this masterpiece. These struggles, and the resultant appreciation of this music stayed with me forever…
This recording features an additional bonus feature of an interview with Valery Gergiev.
Here is the Tchaikovsky Symphony No 5 E minor with the Mariinsky Orchestra, conducted by Gergiev:
And here is the 3rd movement waltz form the same symphony
Tags: Tchaikowsky, Symphonies 4 5 and 6, Valery Gergiev, Mariinsky Orchestra