The Royal Danish Orchestra’s performing history stretches back to 1448, making it the oldest orchestra in the world, with Carl Nielsen counted amongst its distinguished former members. His 16 years of experience as one of the orchestra’s second violinists helped shape him as a composer, and it was this ensemble that introduced his symphonies to the world. From the ‘imminent storm of genius’ of the First Symphony to the disarming outlandishness of the Sixth, Nielsen’s symphonies are recognised as among the greatest in their genre, heard here in recordings made with a league of conductors whose bond with Denmark and Nielsen’s music is second to none.

Carl Nielsen’s symphonies have acquired a huge following on recordings in recent decades, and there are now numerous complete cycles available from all of the leading record labels. This new compilation brings together some of the most impressive and notable recordings of Nielsen’s symphonies ever made.

The Royal Danish Orchestra is famed for its distinctive sound, and today it forms part of the Royal Danish Theatre, performing for opera and ballet productions and presenting a symphonic concert series in Copenhagen’s magnificent waterfront Opera House. This excellent set can count on sales as the orchestra’s calling card, but will surely be an attraction throughout Denmark and beyond.

Recordings 1965–2022