Symphony No. 5 in D major

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Bryden Thomson / London Symphony Orchestra

1987

Top choice. 'Wonderful sound' and 'very atmospheric,' it 'brings home that feeling of tranquility' from the work. A 'very natural interpretation'.

Sir John Barbirolli / Hallé Orchestra

1944 Older recording, cleaned up on Dutton.

A historical recording from Barbirolli. A 'more... passionate interpretation' than Thomson's. The third movement 'Romanza is very lovingly done'.