As AS writes in his notes to this reissue, ''Berlioz was part of the Halle Orchestra's tradition from the very beginning''. Halle himself, Harty, later Barbirolli were enthusiastic advocates; and the real interest of this disc is, in the literal sense, as a record of that tradition. Barbirolli's way with Berlioz is actually rather indulgent. Much of the Symphonie fantastique is beautifully phrased and shaped—the ''Scene aux champs'' is a fine example—but there are passages, even whole movements, where the loving caress becomes sentimental. ''Un bal'' does not really have the lightness of touch which should be part of the Berlioz style, and nor does the ''Danse des sylphes'' (the contrast with Beecham's remembered performance is striking). Slow tempos here are partly to blame, or more probably the consequence of the interpretative approach; and this also afflicts the Carnaval romain Overture. The Hungarian March, however, goes well.
In sum, this is a record for Barbirolli's particular admirers; and they will find much that is characteristic of the best of him here as well as attitudes that some listeners will regard more affectionately than others.'