Arnold Bax's Third Symphony was the first he completed (in 1929) at his Scottish highland retreat in Morar. Dedicated to sir Henry Wood (who conducted its first performance), this is one of Bax's most performed symphonies (which, admittedly, isn't saying a great deal in the overall scheme of things), and considered his most approachable. It was first recorded in 1944 by Sir John Barbirolli with the Hallé Orchestra - one of the few works of Bax recorded in his lifetime.
Composed with Bax's customary three-movement form, it has been described as gentle rather than sombre in character and dominated by the spirits of Northern legends - no doubt enhanced by the Morar location where it was completed.
The other Bax symphonies I've posted so far have all been from Lyrita - but they never recorded the 3rd or 4th. Here we have the 1986 Chandos recording by Bryden Thomson and the London Philharmonic Orchestra.
Click on the sleevenote scan below for more information. Other music by Bax - including the symphonies - on this blog can be found here.
Cartridge: Shelter 5000 MC
Phono amp: Graham Slee Accession MC
Turntable: CTC Classic 301 with SME M2-12R
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