Elgar: Symphony No. 1 & In the South / Marriner, ASMF

REVIEW:

A blaze from heaven descended on him while he was conducting this extremely good First Symphony. He sets a well-nigh perfect tempo for the march and follows with a really lively, excited allegro. Even better though, the playing captures that elusive vein of fantasy that is Elgar. Moments of magic explain why Elgar wraps himself round the hearts of the Englanders and beyond. Marriner knows where he is going and the final pages are superb. The recording itself is beautifully balanced.

Gramophone