Three collector editions devoted to the operas and choral works by Britten have already been released (475 6020, 475 6029, 475 6040) and feature authoritative performances with the composer and two close colleagues (Steuart Beford conducts Death in Venice in a recording made under the supervision of Britten shortly before his death, and Sir Charles Mackerras conducts Gloriana). This volume of “Britten conducts Britten” focuses on the orchestral works and song cycles with orchestra; Britten as pianist can be heard in the song cycles with piano and many of these recordings remain unique and carry that special authority only the composer himself can bring to recordings of his own music.

Sviatoslav Richter piano (op.13); Julius Katchen piano (op.21); Benjamin Britten piano (opp.22, 35, 72, 74 & Tit for tat); Mark Lubotsky violin (op.15); Mstislav Rostropovich cello (op.68); Alexander Murray flute (op.60); Roger Lord cor anglais (op.60); Gervase de Peyer clarinet (op.60); William Waterhouse bassoon (op.60); Barry Tiuckwell horn (opp.31, 60); Osian Ellis harp (op.60); Denis Blyth timpani (op.60); Peter Pears tenor (opp.22, 35, 52, 69); John Shirley-Quirk baritone (Tit for tat); Dietrich Sischer-Dieskau baritone (opp.69, 74); London Symphony Chorus (op.69); English Chamber Orchestra (op.4, 10, 13, 15, 18, 29, 68); New Philharmonia Orchestra (op.20); London Symphony Orchestra (opp.21, 31, 34, 60, 69); Orchestra of the Royal Opera House, Covent Garden (op.57)