Jeff Dunn asked:

>While we're on the symphonies, is there anyone out there like myself who
>prefers the First to the Second?

I used to.  My first encounter with the 2nd was a version Boult made
with the Scottish National, as it then was, for the small Scottish label,
Waverley.  It seemed undernourished and meandering, and I found it very
hard to maintain interest.  When I heard Slatkin's version, I realised
its worth.  Although I've since bought other versions by Boult and
Barbirolli, both of which I like, I return to Slatkin more often.  But
I still think the opening theme of the last movement is a bit trite,
whoever's doing it.  All of this shows how easily a mediocre performance
can affect your perception of a work's value.

The 3rd has had little mention in this thread.  I like it well enough,
but it still seems to be in the situation of an adopted child trying
to fit into a well-established family.

Richard Pennycuick