Serenade for Tenor, Horn and Strings

Benjamin Britten

Peter Pears, Barry Tuckwell / Benjamin Britten / London Symphony Orchestra

1963

Top recommendation. A gorgeous, sumptuously recorded, and ethereal stereo version from the composer and his partner, Peter Pears. They show obvious authority and great care for the text. Comes with excellent couplings of 'Les Illuminations' and 'Nocturne'.

Peter Pears, Dennis Brain / Benjamin Britten / Boyd Neel Orchestra

1944 Mono recording.

The premiere recording with the legendary Dennis Brain. While not as ethereal as the later stereo version, this has a 'particular intensity' and brings out the dramatic elements more.

Martyn Hill, Frank Lloyd / Richard Hickox / City of London Sinfonia

1991

A beautiful, ethereal version in digital sound. Hill sings with a light, beautiful tone that perfectly suits the work, complemented by the warmth of the strings.