Richard Pennycuick wrote:

>There are things about Hanson's own versions that I like, but the Delos
>ones have the advantage of better recording and, in at least the case
>of the 3rd IMHO, a more incisive performance.  It's not all that likely
>that Naxos will record them anew in their American Music Series and not,
>I think, at all likely that anyone else will, so that's another good
>reason for buying the set: you may never have another chance.

I agree with just about everything in this post, but would add a few
comments.  I find the Hanson readings on Mercury a bit more incisive than
Schawarz's, but also less opulent and romantic.  Schwarz also has a better
orchestra.  I don't known what the Mercury CDs sound like, but the original
LPs have far more dynamic sound than the rather thick and covered Delos.

All that said, I'd get the Schwarz without hesitation.

Roger Hecht