Sir John Barbirolli’s electrifying interpretations of the works of Jean Sibelius have inspired audiences all over the world. In a letter to Barbirolli, Sibelius declared himself to be a ‘devoted admirer’ of the conductor, adding that he was always happy to know that his compositions were in Barbirolli’s ‘masterful hands’. This collection features, among other works, the complete symphonies – including Barbirolli’s specialty, No. 2 -, the incidental music of Pellas et Mlisande and that great instrumental song of nationalism Finlandia.

Tracklist:

1. Finlandia, Op. 26
2. Karelia Suite, Op. 11: I. Intermezzo
3. Karelia Suite, Op. 11: II. Ballade
4. Karelia Suite, Op. 11: III. Alla Marcia
5. Pohjola’s Daughter, Op. 49
6. 2 Pieces from Kuolema, Op. 44: No. 1, Valse Triste
7. Lemminkinen Suite, Op. 22 “Legends of the Kalevala”: No. 4, Lemminkinen’s Return
8. Symphony No. 2 in D Major, Op. 43: