"...The great horn melody of the slow movement brings identifiably Russian tone for Svetlanov, euphonium-like without unpleasant whining...in the symphony, Svetlanov finds inspiration in the finale, with a sparkling scherzo section leading to a beautiful Nocturne."

Edward Greenfield - Gramophone [8/1994]

The First Symphony is notable for the rhythmic interest of the first movement and the lively second movement, which shows the influence of Mendelssohn, with the third movement full of heartfelt romanticism- a fitting contrast to the resplendent final movement.