Evgeny Svetlanov (1928-2002) needs no introduction to BBC Legends. This dynamic and fiery Russian conductor was born in Moscow and studied conducting at the conservatory there. From 1955 he conducted at the Bolshoi Theatre, being appointed principal conductor there in 1962. From 1965 he was principal conductor of the USSR State Symphony Orchestra which he built into one of the greatest Russian orchestras, second only to the Leningrad Philharmonic. In 1979 he was appointed principal guest conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra. Svetlanov was particularly noted for his interpretations of Russian works - he covered the whole range of Russian music, from Glinka to the present day

Svetlanov recorded Symphony No. 5 twice in the studio, with the USSRSO, so this broadcast from the Edinburgh Festival with the LSO in 1978 is a chance to hear it with a different orchestra and is a marvellous addition to his discography. It is an immensely powerful performance.

Svetalanov was strongly associated with all Russian composers, with Rachmaninov being his personal favourite. He recorded all the Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninov symphonies in the studio including the Isle of the Dead for Melodiya in the 1968, the date of this live broadcast from the Royal Albert Hall Proms with the USSRSO.

Contents:

Shostakovich: Symphony No. 5
LSO / Evgeny Svetlanov
(Recorded: Usher Hall, Edinburgh, 28 August 1978)

Rachmaninov: Isle of the Dead
USSRSO / Evgeny Svetlanov
(Recorded: Royal Albert Hall, 22 August 1968)