We find that the Saint-Saens Third is a great piece to use in
helping newbies to like classical music...  along with Berlioz Symphony
Fantastique, Mozart Piano Concertos, Beethoven piano sonatas, and the
like.  I never tire of Saint-Saens like I do with Tchaikovsky and so many
other frequently played works.  The classical station at the University of
Arizona has a 100 works that they play into the ground 24 hours a day.  I
agree with you comments on the 3rd concerto.  My favorite recording is the
old one with Charles Munch holding the baton.

Ray Bayles