Hi quality, relaxing classical suggestion?

Agree with the Vaughan Williams Sym 5 with Barbirolli suggestion. But for the Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis, I far prefer the Marriner/ASMF performance with the incomparable Iona Brown in the violin solo, Argo ZRG 696.

Another suggestion: Britten's Simple Symphony, with Britten/EnglishChamberOrchestra or Marriner/ASMF. Just finished listening to the Marriner performance with two feet of snow outside and a lovely fire inside.

Excellent list by Rushton. I've heard some by Delius and definetly does deserve recommendation. Vaugh Williams, Theme on Thomas Tallis, yes. On the Thomas Tallis, the recommendations are Sargent,Stokowski (Bridge label, Sym.Of The Air, not with the London), and Barbirolli. One last selection that may be suggested, Vaugh Williams Sym #5 with Barbirolli conducting the Philharmonia (not his Halle O. recording)

Here are some recommendations for orchestral works that are more reflective, lyrical and generally quiet. All are good for a quiet evening with a fire in the fireplace...

Britten, Variations on a Theme of Frank Bridge
Butterworth, Banks of Green Willow
Butterworth, English Idylls
Butterworth, Shropshire Lad
Debussy, Prélude à l'après-midi d'un faune
Delius, Life's Dance
Delius, North Country Sketches
Delius, Song of Summer
Holst, St. Paul's Suite (a bit lively, but not loud)
Holst, Choral Hymns from the Rig Veda, op26,3
Ravel, Pavane pour une Infante Défunte
Ravel, Valses nobles et sentimentales
Vaughan Williams, Fantasia on a Theme by Thomas Tallis
Vaughan Williams, Fantasia on Greensleeves
Vaughan Williams, Lark Ascending
Telemann, Tafelmusick (a large collection of chamber music works) - very nice music for dinner or after dinner drinks

If you enjoy chamber music or music of the baroque or music pre-1600, we can generate yet another list of suggestions.

All classical will have some climaxes. If I had to pick 2: Debussy and Faure. On Debussy everyone will vote for the dutiot/Montreal(2 cd set), which is good. But if you're looking for a smaller quiter(smaller orchestra) sound and is well conducted take a look at Tortelier/Ulster(4cd set). Like I say the Dutoit has much more dynamics in the recording, so may not be as "soothing" as the Tortelier. On the Faure, very easy going and enjoyable classical music, conducted by Plasson/Toulouse Orchestra. MY first choice would be Ravel, Daphne et Chloe and Mother Goose Suite, Skrowaczewski/Minnesota. Do expect some energy in this music at times.