Vaughan Williams' 'A London Symphony' in Building a Library with Kate Kennedy and Andrew McGregor

Available for 26 days

Andrew McGregor with the week's best new classical releases. 2.10pm Andrew is joined by guest reviewer Chris O'Reilly, who picks four new releases that have caught his ear. 3pm Building a Library: Kate Kennedy surveys recordings of Vaughan Williams' Symphony No. 2, 'A London Symphony', and makes her personal top recommendation. Written shortly before the First World War, Vaughan Williams dedicated 'A London Symphony' to fellow composer George Butterworth, who lost his life in the war. Between the chimes of Big Ben, a busker's harmonica, and vibrant nightlife, it is a portrait of London as he knew it, capturing the hustle and bustle of the capital while finding peace and quiet in which to reflect. Top choice: BBC Symphony Orchestra, Martyn Brabbins (conductor) Hyperion CDA68190 (recorded London 2016) 3.50pm Record of the Week: Andrew picks a new release that has most impressed him this week.