Sir Adrian Boult (1889–1983), one of the great British conductors of the 20th century, studied under the legendary Arthur Nikisch in Berlin which make his Brahms interpretations so special.

This fiery 1976 Prom stereo broadcast of Brahms' Symphony No.1 is the only authorised live account available. He recorded the symphony three times in the studio.

The live stereo broadcast of Elgar’s Enigma Variations was sourced from the Royal Albert Hall Centenary Concert on 29 March 1971 and features the alternative organ part played by George Thalben-Ball, one of the most celebrated organists of his time.

The CD is completed by an extract of an interview Boult gave on the occasion of his 85th birthday, in which he talks about the art of interpretation.

Contents:
Brahms: Symphony No.1
BBCSO / Boult
Royal Albert Hall, 17 August 1976

Elgar: Enigma Variations
George Thalben-Ball (organ), BBCSO / Boult
Royal Albert Hall Centenary Concert, 29 March 1971

John Douglas Todd interviews
Sir Adrian Boult
(extract from 85th birthday broadcast)
BBC Studios, 25 March 1974