Chris Mullins:

>By comparison, I just received and started to play a disc of Russian
>music conducted by George Szell.  The "Pictures" is so tidy and clean,
>almost chamber-like, and I don't dismiss that - some sections come across
>quite well.  Overall, however, I miss the passion.  Szell seems loath
>to play with the tempo and build up a gaudy climax. No tingles as Szell's
>"Pictures" blares to a close.  Gergiev provided plenty.

Definitely disagree there.  I know of no Pictures (Ravel orchestration)
as majestic or as blazing as Szell's, including Gergiev's.

Steve Schwartz