Monthly record guide

CLASSICAL Prokofiev, Sergei: Romeo and Juliet Ballet Suites Nos. 1 & 2. The National Symphony Orchestra, Mstislav Rostropovich, conductor. (DG digital 2532 087) - It is to be expected that Rostropovich the conductor would have a way with Prokofiev. There are some eccentric moments on this album. He sets tempos that are not only untraditional, but seem often quite contrary to the mood of the moment. But other sections soar out with such passion, such beauty, such tragedy , that one is, in all, swept away by the entire disc. The National plays very well for its music director, and the DG sound is superb.