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Since this seems to be the unofficial introductions thread, here I go:

I'm 29, live in Wales and have been listening to classical music for as long as I can remember, but in the last few years have been actively trying to broaden my tastes by exploring lesser known composers. If I had to pick a favourite composer, it would be Brahms, and at the moment my favourite "unsung" composer is Havergal Brian. In fact I admit the only reason I registered here originally was to download some otherwise unavailable HB symphonies, but the forum interested me enough to want to stick around. I also play the piano (to a VERY amateur level  ) and (attempt to) compose.

Thanks for uploading the Schuman 2nd symphony, I never thought I'd have a chance to hear it! It's well worth a listen despite the dodgy sound quality.

It is fascinating to be able to listen to the symphony which, as you know, was withdrawn by the composer. The performance you have been able to make available is, as you say, the last time it was performed. I have always found this decision by Schuman rather strange. Copland certainly expressed his very strong admiration for the symphony.

My understanding is that originally it was only temporarily withdrawn, as he intended to revise it. Evidently he either abandoned that project or just never got round to it.

Incidentally, William Schuman is this week's "composer of the week" on BBC Radio 3.

This is excellent news! I was lucky enough to have been there to hear this live. Not too keen on the cover, but really it's what's inside that counts, and I'm glad they've left in the applause too!

Listened to the samples, it sounds wonderful - does anyone know when the CD (ie. actual physical CD as opposed to downloads) will be available?