Edward William Elgar

“Albert Sammons' 1929 account of Elgar's Violin Concerto with Sir Henry Wood and the New Queen's Hall Orchestra remains the finest version ever made, outstripping even the legendary Menuhin/Elgar collaboration from three years later in terms of authoritative grip, intuitive poetry and emotional candour. Previous transfers to CD have varied from satisfactory to merely tolerable and unacceptably botched. So it's a pleasure to encounter Mark Obert-Thorn's judicious restoration for Naxos.
Delius heard Sammons perform the Elgar in May 1915, and was so bowled over that he set about writing a concerto for the formidable virtuoso. Sammons premiered the work with Boult in January 1919 but had to wait a full quarter of a century before committing it to disc. Here is another irreplaceable document: Sammons was an assiduous champion of this glorious music, and although the solo playing hasn't quite the effortless technical mastery of its companion here, his wise and unforced interpretation penetrates to the very core of Delius's lovely vision. An admirable introduction to a truly great fiddler, irresistible at the price.” Gramophone Classical Music Guide, 2010

Endearing performances of such moving music ... A fascinating release. Christopher Morley, Birmingham Post.

“This immensely grand, exciting account of the First Symphony… is a truly passionate reading, not only majestic at the biggest moments but much of the time swift-winged, living on its nerves. The two Berlioz overtures are equally magnificently done, the Lear profound in its pathos, the Béatrice full of quicksilver energy.” BBC Music Magazine, March 2006 *****

“The sound of the Dresden orchestra reconnects Elgar more powerfully with the European romantic tradition, and it's a wonderful performance, sweeping majestically ahead, adrenaline pumping, before glancing behind in those wistfully nostalgic moments that pepper the score.” Andrew McGregor, bbc.co.uk, 29th April 2006

"...They are splendidly played by the excellent English Northern Philharmonia and are lovingly portrayed by its talented conductor. Naxos moreover offers sound of exceptional clarity, balance, and presence. At its love asking price this is hard to beat and easy to recommend." - American Record Guide(John C Mckelvey) July/August 2001