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