Prokofiev: Peter and the Wolf (with Sibelius-Symphony No 2)

"Koussevitzky was one of Sibelius's greatest champions between the two world wars and his recording of the second symphony will be, I suspect, of greatest interest to most listeners. It was set down during the 76 year old maestro's final recording session and, unlike some conductors, Koussevitzky definitely stands down on a high. It must have been very tempting to consider utilising this great Romantic warhorse to go out with a bang but, as Colin Anderson's useful booklet notes suggest, this is instead an expertly graded and controlled performance that, while certainly exciting, holds in check any inclination to play to the gallery."
(MusicWeb Sept 2008)

This disc restores to the catalogue, after an absence of more than 50 years,Koussevitzky's second recording of Peter and the Wolf, with Eleanor Roosevelt as narrator.Taped during his last recording sessions on 29th November, 1950, Koussevitzky's performance of Sibelius's Symphony No. 2 is given with an electricity that transcends studio conditions, yet it is not without light, shade and emotional retreat. The final such example of Koussevitzky's art, which pertinently concludes this disc, is a rapt and expressive account of Grieg's The Last Spring, notable for the warmth and intensity of the Boston strings.