Tchaikovsky Symphonies Nos. 4, 5 & 6

“Extremely Impressive, quite passionate with tremendous spirit. Elegant, thoughtful, well-balanced and sophisticated...the Fourth conveys a sense of Joy, the Fifth is quite passionate – just listen to the first movement’s white-hot coda, or to how the orchestra dig into the finale with audible gusto. The Sixth is also a fine performance with a good sense of overall structure and sensitive attention to detail.… parts emerge like newly scrubbed details in a restored painting…Bernard and his musicians frequently shed new and valuable light on a thrice-familiar standard, abetted by a recorded ambiance that evokes concert hall realism.”

“a thoroughly convincing performance. Following the lugubrious opening measures, the Allegro non troppo of the first movement is spirited and elegant, the well-balanced phrasing clearly articulated, featuring a deft interplay between woodwinds and strings. The second movement “waltz” (in 5/4 time) is all grace and charm, while the brisk third movement march provides a perfect showcase for the ensemble’s stirring brass section before the anguished and despairing finale. It has a certain energy and style all its own. Recommended.”

"These well-crafted definitive recordings explore the inspirations and motivations that drove Tchaikovsky’s quest to craft his brilliant Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Symphonies…This latest triumph work of Maestro Bernard and the Symphony reminds us not only of the importance of orchestral music but also the historical, humanistic value of late 19th-century music that redefined the symphonic genre and established Tchaikovsky as one of the foremost composers of his time….The PACS captured each work’s rich orchestral palette, lush harmonies, and keen sense of drama while conveying the music’s emotional depth…These recordings are groundbreaking in their contemporary exploration of emotional depth and psychological complexity that paved the way for later composers to probe further into personal expression and introspection."

“Commendably precise, the contrasts in softer and louder passages especially telling in their nuanced delivery…It is fun hearing the music done up in such clear, clean sound and in such a clean, clear interpretation.”

“...a sober, reflective account lacking in overt hysteria...a winning stoicism...it’s difficult to resist a third movement which exudes such positivity. The slow finale’s close is resigned but not despairing…”

“Bernard’s shaping is unsurpassed in dramatic effectiveness…the clarity he gives to the varied voices is a joy.”