Alexander Gibson and Scottish National Orchestra gives superb performances of Enigma Variations and Pomp and Circumstance Marches. They play each variation with noble poise and genuine emotional involvement, without losing perspective on the whole structure of the work. They don't fall into the temptation to over-cook the characterization but let the music speak for itself eloquently.
Disc 2 includes equally memorable performances of popular Elgar miniatures and rarely played gems like Soliloquy for oboe, Chanson de nuit (one of the most sublime melodies by Elgar) and Sursum corda. Norman Del Mar and George Hurst conducts Bournemouth Sinfonietta with genuine affection and finesse.