These performances established both the conductor and the Oslo Philharmonic as artists of international stature. Indeed, this is one of the finest sets of Tchaikovsky symphonies ever recorded. Mariss Jansons earned his stripes in Leningrad under the legendary Evgeni Mravinsky, and while his performances aren't as manic as his mentor's, they are highly disciplined, intense, and superbly recorded. If you're looking for great Tchaikovsky in modern digital sound, this set's the one to get. --David Hurwitz