Aided by outstandingly eloquent support from Sir Andrew Davis and the BBC Philharmonic, Watkins plays with consummate artistry, his golden-toned and technically flawless contribution striking a judicious balance between classical poise and unexaggerated depth of feeling…Pacing is spot-on throughout, the first movement lean and purposeful, the scherzo mercurial without being breathless, the sublime Adagio ideally flowing.

Durable rewards guaranteed, then, and the same certainly holds true for Davis’s dashingly articulate, meticulously observant and superbly musical handling of the Pomp and Circumstance Marches. What a joy to hear No 1’s indestructible trio melody unfold with such heartwarming naturalness and spontaneity…

The Denon has a balanced, well-defined sound: play a recording such as the new Chandos Elgar Cello Concerto through it and you’ll hear just how even-handed it is. However, if you’re a fan of opera, make sure the lack of gapless playback isn’t going to be a deal-breaker. © 2012 Gramophone