Sir Neville Marriner/Academy of St. Martin in the Fields - The Argo Years

A stunning 28-CD box set charting Sir Neville's early recording days with the ensemble he founded. John Suchet's Album of the Week, 14 April 2014.

A real treasure trove of gems from Sir Neville Marriner’s early recording days on the Argo label, with the Academy of St. Martin in the Fields. 

The 28-CD box spans the years 1964-1981 and includes a bonus CD of their first recordings from 1961, tracing the development of the Academy’s unique sound. There are superb performances from the likes of Alan Loveday and Iona Brown, who in 1974 became Sir Neville's successor in directing from the violin. Other highlights include the acclaimed recording of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons, and full performances of Handel’s Messiah and Mozart’s Requiem.

This is a priceless collection demonstrating the ensemble's extraordinary range and skill, and the energy and enthusiasm of the man behind them.