The first release in Valery Gergiev s Rachmaninov symphony cycle features a magnificent performance of the Symphony No.2, recorded in September 2008 at the Barbican. This vast work was composed when Rachmaninov was at the pinnacle of his careers as composer, pianist and conductor. Filled with emotion and brimming with beautiful melodies, it is a masterpiece and the epitome of the Romantic symphony. The recording features the complete version of the symphony and will be followed in future years by the first and third symphonies as well as the Symphonic Dances.