A memorable performance of Berlioz' masterpiece recorded in 1999 and performed by two Dutch world class orchestras, four phenomenal soloists and a conductor of worldfame, who started his career with the Radio Philharmonic Orchestra. This were all very good reasons to bring out this concert on CD. An additional reason was the threatening intention of the Dutch government to abolish the Muziekcentrum van de Omroep (MCO) with its orchestras (Radio Philharmonic, Radio Chamber Philharmonic, Metropole, Public Broadcast Choir). This would be very bad for Dutch and international cultural life and tradition. Conductor Bernard Haitink also empazises his support to the rich musical tradition in the Netherlands and to pass on the passion to the younger generation of musicians and to keep the high quality of music alive!

Buying this CD is also a symbolic act of support to the Dutch orchestras of the MCO.