Symphony No, 2, Enigma Variations : Solti / London Philharmonic (1975, 1979)

ELGAR: Symphony No. 2 in E flat op. 63
ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL, LONDON, 13 FEBRUARY 1975

ELGAR: Variations on a theme ‘Enigma’
ROYAL FESTIVAL HALL, LONDON, 25 SEPTEMBER 1979

London Philharmonic Orchestra
Sir Georg Solti, conductor

Solti recorded Elgar’s Symphony No.2 (along with the Cockaigne Overture) on audio around the same time as the Royal Festival Hall performance, to great acclaim. Solti’s recordings were always the recommended version of each work he performed . he had a deep understanding of the repertoire.
This DVD is the first audiovisual recording to feature Solti performing Elgar 2, and has never been released before.
The Second Symphony is also a record of the first concert Solti conducted as the London Philharmonic’s Chief Conductor in 1975. James Mallinson, one of Solti’s record producers, commented that his audio recordings of the two Elgar symphonies are probably two of his finest recordings due to his open and fresh approach.
Solti’s quote at the time of broadcasting the Enigma Variations: “I love Elgar, and for me the Enigma Variations is his masterpiece.”

Reviews of Solti’s Elgar performances:
“Again modelled on the composer’s own surprisingly clipped and urgent reading, the Second Symphony benefits from virtuoso playing from the LPO. Fast tempi bring searing concentration, yet the nobilmente element is not missed and the account of the finale presents a true climax. The effect is magnificent.” (Penguin Guide)
“He makes…for me a deeply satisfying experience.” (Jerrold Northrop Moore on Solti’s Decca recording)
“Solti [brings] fresh, usually illuminating insight…to this composer’s wares” (William Mann’s review in The Times of an all-Elgar concert in 1979) ( ICA Classics )