Search - Vaughan Williams, BBC Symphony Orchestra :: Symphonies 4 & 5

Barbirolli's Interpretation of RVW's 5th still tops!

12/01/1998

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Sir John, a personal acquaintance of Ralph Vaughan Williams, knew, more than any other, what was in the mind of the composer when he wrote the beautiful 5th symphony. Other than Sir Adrian Boult, who also recorded a stunning performance, no one knew the thoughts that raced through RVW's mind as the end neared of England's involvement in World War II. The composer's predictions that the world would once again be a safer place, and there would once again be harmony, are seemingly predicted in this work! Barbirolli captures the mind of RVW with this "to-the-text" interpretation. Barbirolli's command of the Halle Orchestra only examplfies that ensemble's understanding of the English mind in music. Since this was first recorded in the early 60's, it is second to none and only Sir Adrian can come close!"