Tchaikovsky's three classic ballets combine his remarkable gift for melody with sparkling orchestration and a real sense of theatrical magic. Herbert von Karajan and the Wiener Philharmoniker provide performances of "utmost polish and sophistication" in a recording that "can be recommended without reservations". - Gramophone
Don't be put off that this Nutcracker is played by the Utah Symphony. It is first class in every way in the glorious sound that Vanguard lavished on the orchestra.Maurice Abravanel was one of the most significant theater conducters of the 20th century. You can feel immediately that he grasps the balletic nature as well as the symphonic majesty of Tchaikovsky's score. The interpretation is brisk, light, nimble, well balanced and masterfully cohesive. Right from the beginning of the overture you will understand what I mean! The playing of the Utah Symphony is transparent, clean, and full of color. You can tell they enjoy playing it! I bought this recording years ago on Vanguard Everyman LPs. The CD transfer is excellent. Grab the it while you can still get it!
-Amazon-
The USSR Symphony Orchestra owes its success largely to Evgeni Svetlanov, its artistic director, Lenin prize winner, USSR People's Artist, Hero of Socialist Labour — a gifted versatile musician, talented conductor, composer and pianist. For several years Svetlanov had a position with the All-Union Radio Orchestra, later taking over the USSR Bolshoi Theatre Orchestra. Evgeni Svetlanov's name is well known all over the world.