These early symphonies, conducted by Principal Conductor Vladimir Jurowski, showcase youthful Tchaikovsky at his best. The Second, 'Little Russian', is full of bright, dancing Ukranian folk melodies which build to a joyous final celebration bursting with life. The Third Symphony, nicknamed for its finale in the style of a 'polonaise', takes German and Polish musical styles and transforms them into a truly Russian symphony; one that hints at Tchaikovsky's later balletic works.