The dynamic young French-Canadian conductor records the symphony that has played a central role in his remarkable career. Yannick Nezet-Seguin first heard it live in Montreal at the age of eight. It was the work he chose for his debut with both the Orchestre Metropolitain du Grand Montreal and the Philadelphia Orchestra. Conducting this quintessentially Russian music with the Rotterdam Philharmonic acknowledges his predecessor on the podium, Valery Gergiev, as well as showcasing the depth and refinement of the Dutch orchestras rich textures. Yannick Nizet-Siguin admires Tchaikovsky not just as a composer of heart-breaking melodies but also as a master symphonist. "The point for me is this works pervasive lust for life, and the lack of faith in humanity which is the implicit message of the end." the symphony is accompanied by two sets of Tchaikovsky's songs, in arrangements for piano and violin. Yannick Nezet-Seguin at the piano is joined by star violinist Lisa Batiashvili, whose understanding of the original Russian texts colors her interpretation. At just 37, Yannick Nezet-Seguin is a driving force on the international music scene.