The best recordings of Rimsky-Korsakov

Christmas Eve

Tarkhov, Krasovsky; Radio Moscow Choir & Symphony Orchestra/Nikolai Golovanov
Documents 298348

This 1948 recording is full of character and worth hearing despite historic sound.

• A guide to Nikolay Rimsky-Korsakov

Overture and Suites from the Operas

RSNO/Neeme Järvi
Chandos CHAN 10369(2)

An excellent introduction to Rimsky-Korsakov’s fantastical side.

• The best recordings of Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto

The Snowmaiden

Sokolik, Arkhipova; Tchaikovsky Symphony Orchestra/Fedoseyev
Relief CR 991049

A fine cast captures the charm and poignancy of Rimsky-Korsakov’s pantheistic opera.

• 11 important Shostakovich quotes

Sadko

Galusin, Tarassova, Gassiev; Kirov Chorus & Orchestra/Valery Gergiev
Philips 0704399 (DVD)

A superb cast in a wonderful production of one of Rimsky-Korsakov’s fairy-tale operas.

• Nine unexpected uses of Tchaikovsky's The Nutcracker