Bax Symphonies - Handley

[Petrushka]

I am thinking of spending an Amazon gift certificate on this set. I have never heard any of these symphonies before but the Amazon reviews look mostly positive.

What do you think? Should I go for it?

[Roehre]

I am thinking of spending an Amazon gift certificate on this set. I have never heard any of these symphonies before but the Amazon reviews look mostly positive.
What do you think? Should I go for it?

Petrushka, I can unreservedly recommend those recordings.
IMO the Bax symphonies which are available at the moment (the 2 Chandos sets, the Naxos set and the Lyrita recordings) all are between good and excellent. They are different readings, but I think the different ways by which Bax' music can be approached, is clearly highlighted if you compare them. Stand alone any of these are enjoyable anyway.

[Petrushka]

Thanks, Roehre. This is one of those sets I've kept on picking up in HMV Oxford St and putting back again. One or two people have urged me over the years to try Bax but I've always overlooked his music. This could be the right time instead of buying yet another Brahms symphony set.

[EdgeleyRob]

I have the BBC Philharmonic / Vernon Handley (CHAN 10122(5))
No complaints whatsoever, a quality boxed set

[Alison]

Yes, go for the Handley boxed set, Petrushka. A proper Christmastide gift to oneself.

[StephenO]

One of the best sets I've bought. Definitely go for it! If you don't know the Bax symphonies you'll be in for a treat.

[Thomas Roth]

I greatly prefer the Lyrita recordings. Add nos 3 & 4 with Thomson on Chandos and the collection is perfect.

[Petrushka]

Duly ordered!

As an aside, I cannot imagine how I have never heard any of these symphonies but then when do they ever get an outing at the Proms or R3? I have never heard so much as a note of them but have heard good things both on here, the old BBC MB's and the Gramophone forum when I was on there. Time to find out for myself.

Thanks all.

[BBMmk2]

Petroushka, I hope you enjoy that set!! Very special indeed!