For more than six decades, Adrian Boult was at the forefront of British music-making. He was the most skilled British conductor of his era, with the widest musical sympathies. This edition includes all his mono recordings made between 1920 and 1957 for HMV, Pye Nixa and Parlophone labels. More than half of this box set is available for the very first time on CD, in HD remastering made from the original sources, and it includes several previously unreleased recordings.

The albums are presented as original pairing programmes with original cover artwork, with sometimes several albums on the same CD if their length is short.

Biography

Born on 8 April 1889, in Chester, England.

Musical studies at the Leipzig Conservatory, a pivotal period where he was deeply influenced by the legendary conductor Arthur Nikisch, observing his rehearsals and performances. This exposure provided him with a strong foundation in German musical traditions, contrasting with the more Italianate leanings of some of his British contemporaries.

Made his conducting debut in 1914 with a programme featuring Bach, Wagner, Wolf, Schumann, and the premiere of George Butterworth's The Banks of Green Willow, showcasing his early commitment to both established composers and new British music.

Remained active in the musical scene during World War I, notably conducting the first performance of Gustav Holst's The Planets in 1918.

Held significant early conducting positions, including with the City of Birmingham Orchestra (1924-1930), where he built its reputation, and the Bach Choir, succeeding Vaughan Williams as conductor (1928-1931). He also taught conducting at the Royal College of Music (1919-1930), establishing the first such class in England.

Played a crucial role in the establishment of the BBC Symphony Orchestra in 1930, becoming its first Chief Conductor (1930-1950). He molded it into a world-class ensemble, setting unparalleled standards of excellence in Britain and championing contemporary works alongside the classical repertoire. His close relationship with the orchestra was a defining feature of his career.

Conducted the music for the coronations of King George VI (1937) and Queen Elizabeth II (1953), prestigious national events that highlighted his stature.

Served as principal conductor of the London Philharmonic Orchestra (1950-1957) after leaving the BBC, maintaining a prominent position in British musical life. He later returned to the CBSO as a guest conductor and also conducted the Scottish National Orchestra.

Became a tireless champion of British composers, forming close working relationships with and premiering and recording numerous works by Elgar, Vaughan Williams, Holst, Walton, and Britten. His advocacy was crucial in establishing their place in the international repertoire.

Known for his conducting style characterized by its clarity, discipline, and objectivity. He favored a restrained podium presence, using minimal gestures, always ensuring his wrists were visible to the musicians. His focus was on faithfully realizing the composer's intentions, prioritizing musical structure and detail over personal flamboyance. He even wrote a handbook on conducting technique.

Amassed a vast discography throughout his long career, beginning in the 1920s and continuing until 1978. His recordings are highly regarded for their integrity and musical insight. He recorded extensively with the BBC Symphony Orchestra and the London Philharmonic Orchestra, mostly for Pye Nixa and HMV, then EMI (all parts of Warner Classics catalogue nowadays).

Continued to conduct and record actively well into his later years, giving his last public concert in 1978 and officially retiring from conducting in 1981 at the age of 92.

Died on 22 February 1983, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of Britain's most influential and respected conductors. He mentored and influenced many younger conductors, including Colin Davis, James Loughran, Richard Hickox, and Vernon Handley.