Symphony No. 2 in E-flat major
Edward Elgar
Sir John Barbirolli / Hallé Orchestra
1964 Sound is 'a little bit more thin sounding' than his First.Top choice. Barbirolli brings 'passion, commitment, sensitivity, and humanity.' The 'pathos of that slow movement... is so committed and passionate it just sells you on the work'.
Sir Edward Elgar / London Symphony Orchestra
1927 Historical recording. Sound is 'a little bit more dim' than his First.Elgar's own 'dramatic, exciting, committed performance.' You get the composer's authority and a real sense of commitment.