Alexandra Browning (soprano)
Colin Wheatley (baritone)
BBC Northern Symphony Orchestra
Jascha Horenstein


Jascha Horenstein had a very extensive discography but he never recorded these two Scandinavian symphonies which makes them rare and important additions for all collectors.

Between 1969 and 1972 Horenstein performed, recorded and broadcast Nielsen’s 3rd, 5th and 6th Symphonies, the tone poem ‘Saga-Drom’, the Clarinet Concerto (with Gervase de Peyer), and the opera ‘Saul & David’ as well as appearing prominently in the Robert Simpson/Barrie Gavin BBC Documentary ‘Espansiva’ in 1970. This performance of Nielsen’s Symphony No.3 ‘Sinfonia Espansiva’ was a concert given in Manchester’s Town Hall as part of a midday prom.

BBC Legends already has a very well reviewed recording released of Horenstein conducting Nielsen’s Symphony No.5 (BBCL 4191-2).

The live performance and broadcast of Sibelius’ Symphony No.5 appears to be the ONLY occasion that Horenstein conducted it, according to his long time colleague, Joel Lazar. This makes it’s inclusion on this CD exceptionally important. Horenstein conducted Sibelius Symphony No.2 quite frequently, along with the Violin Concerto.

As a bonus, Robert Simpson, the composer and friend of the conductor, gives a moving tribute following Horenstein’s death in 1973.