Szell: Haydn Symphonies Nos. 88 & 104 (rec. 1954, mono only) - Epic LC 3196

Jacket VG / LP EX

This very handsome LP from Epic (LC 3196, US pressing, gold/black radial label, mono – no stereo edition exists) features two of George Szell and the Cleveland Orchestra's finest Haydn recordings: the Symphony No. 88 in G Major 'Paris' and No. 104 in D Major 'London', made in the fine acoustics of Severance Hall, Cleveland, on 11 April 1954.

Both works find Szell and the Clevelanders at their most captivating, performances that are both grand, spirited, and smiling.

 CONDITION:

There are superlative liner notes on the reverse side of the jacket by Neville Cardus, printed in English only. The striking cover design is uncredited.

The gradations of condition I use are as follows: MINT, Near-Mint, Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, Poor.

The condition of the jacket is VERY GOOD. There is a discreet 2” seamsplit to the upper edge and a small bit of laminate peeling to the lower-right corner, but that is all. There are no seamsplits, bends, owners' markings, or other defects, and the album remains solid, bright, glossy, and highly attractive – overall, a very good collector's copy.

The condition of the LP itself is EXCELLENT. Although the surfaces are not absolutely silent, really this is a fine copy and the playback is enjoyable. Those requiring a flawless or near-MINT copy are kindly advised to look elsewhere. Overall, this is an excellent collector's copy.