Symphony No. 2 in D major

Jean Sibelius

Sir John Barbirolli / Royal Philharmonic

1962

Gil's first choice; a 'real famous version.' Barbirolli 'really brings the character and atmosphere to this recording.'

Tauno Hannikainen / London Symphonia

c. 1950s

A '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

1930

'The historical of all historical recordings... very restricted' sound, but 'the music just sounds spontaneous, fresh... visceral excitement.'