Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 6, "Pathétique"

One of Michael Tilson Thomas’ first recordings was of Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 1. Now, more than 50 years later, he gives us No. 6, “Pathétique,” and it’s a wonderful testament to the rapport he has with his San Francisco orchestra. “To me,” Tilson Thomas explained on the orchestra’s website in June 2018, “Tchaikovsky is saying, ‘Here is my simple story. Please listen to me and hear me.'" His approach backs that up: It’s beautifully judged, emotional without being hysterical, yet far from cool. The orchestral playing, captured live, is magnificent with some impressive solo work. Nobody makes a misstep in a performance that tugs at the heart.