It contains the first recordings of two works that British composers produced for the instrumentalist. Perhaps best known is Ralph Vaughan Williams' Romance, recorded in October 1952 with accompaniment directed by Malcolm Sargent. But equally as enjoyable is Arthur Benjamin's compact Harmonica Concerto, in an August 1953 recording with the London Symphony and Basil Cameron. The Vaughan Williams was originally issued on a single recording, then coupled with the Benjamin for this 10-inch LP.
I have a particular affection for such lowly instruments as the harmonica and the accordion, and the amazing skill and artistry that Adler displays in these works is fascinating to me. No doubt he is helped by close miking, but he makes other performances sound pale.
The sound here is good, although as I recall I needed to adjust the speed up about a half-step. The download includes reviews of the day and of course scans.
