This recording, one of the first Michael Tilson Thomas made as a conductor, is probably the best reading of Tchaikovsky's First Symphony. The playing by the Boston Symphony is first rate. It was made during the early 1970s when the orchestra was considered the best orchestra in performance of the French Impressionists, so the playing in the Debussy is very subtle and relaxed. Sadly, the playing of this orchestra has declined through the years, mainly because of the long tenure of the Seiji Ozawa as music director, which will thankfully come to an end soon. Tilson Thomas, however, shines throughout. This is an insightful, fresh look into both works.