Symphony No. 1 in A-flat major
Edward Elgar
Sir John Barbirolli / Philharmonia Orchestra
1962 Very good stereo sound.Top choice. Barbirolli brings 'passion, commitment, sensitivity, and humanity' that sells the work. Noted for the gorgeous string sound, especially the melody over harp arpeggios in the finale.
Sir Edward Elgar / London Symphony Orchestra
1930 Historical recording. Sound is 'not bad' for its time.Elgar's own 'dramatic, exciting, committed performance.' You get the composer's authority combined with a 'spontaneity and the sense of discovery'.