Arturo Toscanini's association with the BBC Symphony Orchestra was brief but intensive and affectionate, lasting annually from 1935 to 1939, with the exception of 1936.
Performer Biography
Arturo Toscanini, despite being a legendary conductor, was described by himself as 'Only an honest musician!' when introduced to the BBC Symphony Orchestra.
Recording & Production
Some of the Toscanini/BBC recordings were made continuously using two cutting turntables, which occasionally resulted in lost music during the transition between matrices.
Performer Biography
This album revives all of Arturo Toscanini's approved recordings with the BBC Symphony Orchestra, offering a unique opportunity to examine their evolving relationship.
Historical Context
The BBC Symphony Orchestra was established in 1930 by the British Broadcasting Corporation primarily for radio work, but also for concerts and recordings.
Recording & Production
The 1937 recording of Beethoven's 'Pastorale' Symphony retains Beethoven's original scoring, without extra timpani or resolved violin trills, unlike some later interpretations.
Interpretation
In the Beethoven First Symphony, Toscanini's performance includes degrees of portamento and rubato that might surprise listeners familiar only with his later style.
