Prokofiev: Romeo & Juliet, Op. 64

Gergiev brought out of the London Symphony Orchestra a range of new colours when they played Prokofiev’s music, and this recording of the complete Romeo & Juliet ballet is a superb reminder of the Gergiev-LSO partnership. Full of glorious melodies; rich, vivid colours; and a really astounding rhythmic life, this is one of Prokofiev’s finest theatrical scores. And Gergiev is a true man of the theatre, often conducting for dancers—experience that gives his performance of the ballet real authority.