Symphony No. 2 in D major
Jean Sibelius
Recordings
Top Choice
Sir John Barbirolli / Royal Philharmonic
1962Gil's first choice; a 'real famous version.' Barbirolli 'really brings the character and atmosphere to this recording.'
Also Worth Hearing
Tauno Hannikainen / London Symphonia
c. 1950sA 'little bit more straightforward... but there is an obvious love and affection... as well as an innate knowledge.'
Sir Thomas Beecham / BBC Symphony
1954 Live recording'Knocks your socks off... super exciting, almost volatile.'
Robert Kajanus / Unidentified
1930'The historical of all historical recordings... very restricted' sound, but 'the music just sounds spontaneous, fresh... visceral excitement.'