Raymond Thomas and the New World Symphony Orchestra bring together in this recording of ‘Symphonic Vignettes, Vol. 5,’ an interesting variety of great music. The featured composition in this album is Tschaikowsky’s Capriccio Italien. Peter Ilich Tschaikowsky (1840-1893) composed this symphonic impression of Italy while living in Clarens, Switzerland. During this quiet episode of his turbulent life, his creative powers were allowed to well forth freely from his imaginative genius. His mental peace was partly brought about by a commission from Nadejda Filaretovna von Meck, his wealthy benefactress. Besides giving him a sizeable yearly stipend, she became a sounding board for his opinions and impressions, his hopes and fears. Although their correspondence, rich in biographical and musical detail, lasted for many years, it is interesting to note that they never had any personal contact. With personal privacy assured, Tschaikowsky was able to turn to composing at an unprecedented pace. In 1878 he saw his most succ