“…This recording represents some of the most glorious Elgar I’ve heard since I discovered Barbirolli’s legendary performances as a schoolboy. Sir Mark builds like a Mughal architect and finishes like a Fabergé jeweller. Wonderful full-bodied sound in live recordings.” *****

“… To be sure, then, we’ve got some orchestral playing here that’s simply of the highest level: totally in sync across every section as well as completely unified with the conductor’s interpretive vision. Don’t miss it.”

“… Throughout, the Hallé respond in a splendidly assured fashion, the brass especially covering themselves in glory …”

“…Elder’s seemingly faultless grasp of the symphonic architecture and his sense of where to allow the music to breathe and where to push it forward, means that the works’ very different endings … are both overwhelmingly convincing. These performances, a little more spaciously recorded than their predecessors, are, I think, as fine as any currently available on disc.” *****

Performance ****      Recording ****

“…These live performances of the composer’s two official symphonies date from 2018 and 2021. They show conductor, orchestra and music working together in perfect harmony. Obvious signs? Well, there’s the natural feel of Elder’s tempos, never forced. There’s the musicians’ punch and finesse during every emotional twist in these expansive, deeply moving works… “ ****

Recording of the Month

“…even if you have the earlier recordings in your collection I would urge you to hear these new versions.”