The first of Copland's three popular ballets is coupled here with what's arguably the greatest American symphony. Judd's first movement has more dynamic range than Eiji Oue's performance (below) and the long lines feel better paced.
The second movement is the rumbustious Scherzo in Copland's most extrovert manner.
Judd's interpretation works, and makes Oue seem a trifle pedestrian, closer to Copland's own performances than the dazzle that Bernstein brought to this kind of texture. The New Zealand strings aren't as precise in the taxing high opening as Oue's Minnesota players but, when it eventually comes, the fanfare and the subtle textures surrounding it are completely convincing.
The verdict on this efficient and sympathetic performance will be affected by its being the best buy around now. The suite from Billy theKid gets thoroughly idiomatic treatment too and the coupling will encourage lovers of the most folksy Copland to recognise and enjoy the same composer in the big symphony.