These American Columbia recordings have been mastered from the original metals and lacquers and offer some amazing sound quality for recordings from 1940-1942.

The contrast between Toscanini and Barbirolli was symbolic of the contrast between two generations of conductors and the altering role of conductors. Toscanini was the supreme autocrat of the old school, ruling by terror, insult, tantrums and his own daemonic drive.

Barbirolli, over thirty years younger, was the benevolent autocrat, more democratic, ruling through comradeship with his players, inviting them and the audience to share his own delight in music. The contrast in their philosophy was reflected in their interpretations: Toscanini inspired awe for the music he conducted; Barbirolli inspired love and affection.

Contents:
Brahms: Academic Festival Overture, Op.80
Recorded 16 November, 1940

Brahms: Symphony No.2 in D major, Op.73
Recorded 2 April, 1940

Smetana: The Bartered Bride – Overture
Recorded 2 August, 1940 (19003D)

Barbirolli (arr): An Elizabethan Suite
– The Earl of Salisbury’s Pavane (Byrd)
– The Irish Ho Hoane
– A Toye (Farnaby)
– Giles Farnaby’s Dreame (Farnaby)
– The King’s Hunt (Bull)
Recorded 12 April, 1942 (previously unpublished)

All recordings made in the Liederkranz Hall, New York City