Composer: Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
Works: The Sleeping Beauty, Op. 66
Performers: BBC Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Gennadi Rozhdestvensky
Recording: Royal Festival Hall, London, 10 October 1979
Label: BBC Legends BBCL 4091-2
Tchaikovsky’s “The Sleeping Beauty” remains one of the pinnacles of the ballet repertoire, a lushly orchestrated work that marries elaborate musical themes with the enchanting narrative of a fairy tale. First premiered in 1890, it showcases Tchaikovsky’s distinctive gift for melody and orchestration, reflecting the composer’s deep engagement with the theatricality of ballet. This particular recording by the BBC Symphony Orchestra under the baton of Gennadi Rozhdestvensky provides a compelling interpretation of the score, shedding light on the nuances of Tchaikovsky’s orchestral palette while evoking the grandeur of the ballet’s original context.
Rozhdestvensky’s interpretation is marked by an inherent theatricality that stems from his extensive background with the Bolshoi Theatre. He exhibits an acute understanding of the score’s dramatic contours, ensuring that transitions between the various scenes maintain a narrative momentum. The pacing throughout is adroitly managed; for instance, the famous Waltz (No. 6) in Act 1 emerges with a buoyancy that balances elegance and exuberance, seamlessly drawing the audience into the unfolding story. The conductor’s deft handling of the rhythms allows the music to breathe, with moments of delicacy juxtaposed against more vigorous passages, such as in the exuberant “Pas de Caractère” following the prologue.
Technical execution by the BBC Symphony Orchestra is commendable, demonstrating both commitment and a palpable sense of enjoyment in the performance. While the ensemble occasionally falters—some minor fluffs and moments of slight disunity surface—they are infrequent and do not detract from the overall success. The strings exhibit a warm, rich sound, particularly in the “Panorama” (No. 17) of Act 2, where the lush harmonies resonate beautifully, enveloping the listener in Tchaikovsky’s dreamy soundscape. The woodwinds, too, thrive under Rozhdestvensky’s guidance, providing particularly evocative solos that enhance the score’s narrative depth.
The recording quality is characteristic of the late 1970s BBC sound, offering a clear and well-balanced representation of the orchestra despite the somewhat dry acoustics of the Royal Festival Hall. The engineers have done a commendable job capturing the orchestral textures, allowing the fine details of the score to emerge without sacrificing the overall sonic image. Occasional audience coughs are present, yet they serve to remind the listener of the live context rather than detract from the experience.
Comparatively, this concert edition—while not as comprehensive as Rozhdestvensky’s complete studio recording—still provides a vivid and engaging experience of the ballet score. The selection of pieces reflects the essential highlights while also including lesser-known segments that contribute to the narrative, making the performance both a satisfying and educational experience for listeners. However, the absence of a synopsis limits the accessibility of the work for those unfamiliar with the ballet, which is a notable oversight in the documentation.
This release stands as a significant tribute to Rozhdestvensky’s artistry with the BBC Symphony Orchestra. The performance brims with enthusiasm and interpretative depth, capturing the essence of Tchaikovsky’s vision for “The Sleeping Beauty.” The combination of dynamic conducting, committed orchestral playing, and a well-curated selection of the score results in a recording that not only showcases the ballet’s charm but also serves as a valuable addition to the ongoing legacy of Tchaikovsky’s music. Highly recommended for both ballet aficionados and those seeking to explore the rich world of orchestral ballet interpretations.
