Tchaikovsky: Symphony 4 In F Minor Op. 36

The Fourth is Tchaikovsky's most colorful symphony, particularly in its famous third movement Scherzo, where the strings are pizzicato (plucked) throughout and the composer puts the piccolo player through hell. Mariss Jansons proves himself a sensitive guide to the music's many attractions and pays particular attention to the first movement's unique combination of high tragedy and balletic grace. Lovely sound, too. --David Hurwitz