The late maestro Kurt Masur was a pre-eminent interpreter of Beethoven, and gave many fine performance during his 25-year relationship with the London Philharmonic Orchestra. This recording features two of Beethoven's most popular Symphonies (3 and 5) which were recorded live in concert during a complete cycle of the symphonies at Royal Festival Hall in 2004 while Masur was Principal Conductor of the Orchestra. He conducted from memory, which gives these performances a special energy and insight. The result is a mighty celebration and sense of rediscovering the drama and euphoria of two of Beethoven's most radical and well-loved Symphonies.