SIR THOMAS BEECHAM (MONO)

                                                           

The British National Anthem

BEETHOVEN: Symphony No.9

 

Sylvia Fisher, Nan Merriman, Richard Lewis, Kim Borg

Edinburgh Festival Chorus, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra / Sir Thomas Beecham

 

Recorded: Usher Hall, Edinburgh, 19 August 1956

 

Sir Thomas Beecham (1879-1961) has been exceptionally well served by BBC Legends (this is the twelfth Beecham release on the label) though in almost all cases these live performances mirrored studio (commercial) recordings. This is a very important release because Beecham conducted Beethoven Symphony No.9 infrequently (compared to Symphonies Nos.2 & 7) and never recorded it commercially for any company. This is the first time it has been issued officially with the agreement of Lady Beecham and will be very much sought after by collectors.

 

The soloists for this Edinburgh Festival concert in August 1956 were all international singers, notably Nan Merriman and Richard Lewis.

 

The concert opens with the British National Anthem, a speciality of Beecham. This is the Elgar arrangement for choir and orchestra. The last Beecham release on BBC Legends, Sibelius Symphony No.2 and Dvořák Symphony No.8 (BBCL 4154-2), received unanimous praise from the press:

 

“The appearance of these performances prompts both rejoicing and the dusting off of superlatives…these concert performances possess exceptional focus, energy and commitment. Do not miss this disc.” (BBC Music Magazine)

 

“Sensational, thrilling, incandescent…Record of the Month and certainly in my list for Recording of the Year.” (Musicweb)

 

BBC Legends BBCL42092