Valery Gergiev - In Rehearsal & Performance (Stravinksy, Prokofiev, Debussy)
One of our most dynamic conductors, Valery Gergiev has single-handedly  lifted the Kirov Opera and Orchestra into an elite status among the world's  musical institutions. As shown by this compelling DVD of the conductor at work  with the Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra, Gergiev is a firebrand but also an  intelligent musician whose interpretations burn with intensity. The performances of all four works on the disc--Stravinsky'sFireworksand Piano Concerto (the latter has as soloist Alexander Toradze), Prokofiev'sScythian Suiteand the suite from Debussy'sLe Martyre de Saint  Sebastian--are stamped with originality, although Gergiev saves his best for  his countrymen, particularly Prokofiev, whoseScythian Suiteis  thrillingly rendered. The noteworthy rehearsal footage documents Gergiev and the  Rotterdam musicians as they dive into the nuts and bolts of the Prokofiev work;  as an added bonus, the composer's son, Oleg Prokofiev, gives some insight into  his father's and the conductor's fearless artistry.--Kevin Filipski