It’s funny how many conductors get one Elgar Symphony or the other, but not both. Adrian Boult always did a fine Elgar 2 but wasn’t special in No. 1. John Barbirolli was terrific in No. 1 but somewhat disappointing in 2. Similarly, André Previn falls flat in No. 2, but this No. 1 really shows him at his best. He launches the symphony’s “motto” theme with unaffected grandeur, then catches the almost jazzy rhythms of the first movement proper with real swagger. The scherzo achieves the necessary lightness yet keeps plenty of energy in reserve for its explosive climaxes. A flowing, intenesly lyrical slow movement prefaces an impressively thrusting finale, with an effortlessly managed reprise of the “motto” theme at the very end. Cockaigne hasn’t the same level of inspiration flowing through its veins, but it’s very well played and makes a welcome bonus. The digital sound hasn’t changed a bit: it’s still just fine.
