Classical Companion

Lso/Holst (1926)
Naxos 8111048

The composer conducts - and in fine sound for the time. Essential listening for understanding The Planets as its creator conceived it.

Nbcso/Stokowski (1943)
Cala Sigcd2057, Pristine Pabx035

Scintillating virtuosity from Toscanini's orchestra, in a live performance crackling with a momentous sense of occasion.

Bbcso/Sargent (1958)
Cfp/Warner Classics 5859132

Full-bodied early stereo sound, and a conductor not hide-bound by tradition but drawing out all the theatre of Holst's suite.

Richard R Bennett, Susan Bradshaw (1981)
Facet/Delos Fa8002

Another Essential Bird'S Eye View Of The Score, From The Two-Piano Version That Was Prepared By The Composer Himself.

Bbcso/Davis (1993)
Warner 2564674020

The Best Of Three Versions Led By Boult'S Successor At The Bbcso, With Teldec'S Analytical Sound A Significant Plus.

Lpo/Jurowski (2009)
Lpo Lpo0047

A Live Performance Recovering The Tension And Drama Of The Composer'S Version, But Much Better Played (And Recorded!).