Dvořák & Tchaikovsky: Serenades for String Orchestra

Long a favourite pairing, these two string serenades make perfect companions. Tchaikovsky’s serenade has a Mozartian elegance and an abundance of gorgeous melodies; its second-movement “Valse” has achieved a life of its own—often as a perfect encore piece. Dvořák’s serenade, written five years earlier, in 1875, is also filled with delightful tunes, and dances along with a grace and charm that’s hard to resist. Toshio Yanagisawa draws playing of great style and finesse from his excellent Balkan string orchestra, the various lines beautifully shaped and woven together. Their affection for this music is obvious in every bar.