This soundtrack recording taken from the oscar winning film contains all the excitement, energy and flair that you would expect from a recording of a Bernstein score. However, it also contains some noticeably poor performances from those involved in it's production. Some members of the Jets and Sharks were clearly chosen for their ability to dance rather than for their polished singing. At the beginning of the 'Quintet', for example, the Sharks are hideously out of tune and not necessarily singing the correct words. Also, there is some shoddy playing from the woodwind in the 'Prologue'. Having said that, the percussion are very good, and the trumpets, absolutely outstanding with some gravity defying acrobatics in the 'Dance at the Gym'. Natalie Wood does, of course, shine as Maria and is competently supported throughout by Tony. It is worth buying this recording just for its moment in cinema history and the sheer enthusiasm of the artists involved. But, if you're looking for a tight and precise account of Bernstein's incredible score, then I would suggest a more recent recording would be for you.