Wakeman originally suggested to use a symphony orchestra and choir from Belgrade with an unknown narrator to keep costs at a minimum, but Lyttelton was happy to employ a well known one and later was glad he "resisted the temptation" to go with Wakeman's idea as he wanted to make the album "to the fullest". The two agreed to use the London Symphony Orchestra with conductor David Snell and the English Chamber Choir conducted by Guy Protheroe, which cost £122,000. Recording took place across two days at Studio 1 at CTS Studios in Wembley, London, both days consisting of two three-hour sessions.
Wakeman initially proposed utilizing a symphony orchestra and choir from Belgrade along with an anonymous narrator to minimize expenses, but Lyttelton preferred employing a renowned ensemble instead. The two ultimately decided on the London Symphony Orchestra, led by conductor David Snell and the English Chamber Choir conducted by Guy Protheroe, which cost £122,000.