This disc is not for everyone: the early-'50s monaural sound, the too-lush-by-half portementi of the Czech strings, and
Václav Talich's oddly emotional conducting may seem somehow out of place in a program of serenades. But since there are plenty of clear-eyed, strong-armed, and much more recent recordings in the catalog, listeners who value these antique recordings' qualities won't be depriving anyone else by indulging their tastes. And since the warmth, humanity, and musicality that were the hallmarks of
Talich at his best are lavishly manifest in these performances, this disc will be a pleasure for those with a soft spot for sentimentality. The highlight of the disc is a tremendously affectionate 1951 recording of Suk's Serenade for Strings. In the end, one may regret that the sound is so limited, though Supraphon has done what can be done to refurbish the recording. And one may acknowledge that the Czech string players' tone is warmer and wider than is fashionable. But even if they're not to everyone's taste; for some these will be the most touching performances of the Benda, the Tchaikovsky, and, especially, the Suk available.