Monteux/BSO - Tchaikovsky Symphony No. 6 (Pathétique) (1958) 24-Bit/96-kHz Vinyl Rip

Pierre Monteux’s vision of the Pathétique lacks the indulgence and melancholy favored by others. His straightforward approach, executed superbly by the Boston Symphony Orchestra, allows the music to unfold naturally with no hindrance of bombast or histrionics. Some, however, like their Tchaikovsky served up straight with a chaser, amplifying the ever-present near-death experience. Monteux, like Reiner, prefers each section to build gradually, layering emotion upon emotion, giving the listener a different route to the quiet and sad close.

The stage is set to give the greatest effect to Tchaikovsky’s antiphonal string writing. The fleet and powerful third movement highlights the effect perfectly: listen to the violins darting about as they question and answer each other in the natural acoustic of Symphony Hall. In addition, the violin tone is some of the finest I have heard on the Classic Records reissues. Indeed, the strings of the Boston Symphony steal the show. Although not quite the string sections’ equal, the winds are also very fine (the clarinet solos are done to perfection). I should mention the solo trumpet and first and second trombones - their vibrato-laden tone is often ugly, spoiling an otherwise outstanding ensemble.

The recording is first rate. The strings sound luscious and, when called upon, translucent. The bass is ample (good bass drum impact), with double basses clear enough that their many rapid scales keep up with those in the winds and upper strings. This feat is heard rarely on many LPs. LSC 1901 is worth owning for the pure pleasure the brilliant string ensemble provides and for Monteux’s deeply moving interpretation.
( Anthony Kershaw - Audiophilia Classics )

Track Listing:

Tchaikovsky: Symphony No.6, in B minor, Op.74
First movement - Adagio; allegro non troppo
Second movement - Allegro con grazia
Third movement - Allegro molto vivace
Fourth movement - Adagio lamentoso