Kenneth Alwyn’s LP of popular Tchaikovsky showpieces (1812, Capriccio Italien, Marche Slave) marked Decca’s introduction to stereo and purchasers were advised to warn their next-door neighbours before playing!

The technology was considered remarkable in its day and fifty years on these recordings have lost little of their initial impact; the entry of the Grenadier Guards in 1812 packs a punch like no other recording. Alwyn was an acknowledged Tchaikovsky expert and his interpretation of Capriccio Italien, always a tricky piece to bring off, has rarely been matched since.

Also included in this collection is Sir John Barbirolli’s white hot 1957 version of Romeo and Juliet, a reading that is close to perfection.