Under Daniele Squeo, the Basel Symphony Orchestra develops a transparent, elegant, feather light Rossini sound that has an immense tugging effect. One gear engages another – the rhythmic precision is captivating. Squeo also chooses the timbres deliberately. The strings, playing close to the bridge, create a breathy sound as they begin the orchestral crescendo before the machine gradually gains momentum. The long-mounting progression and sudden acceleration never sounds mechanical – the conductor keeps the orchestra and soloists on a long leash.