- He was the first conductor to lead the New York Philharmonic after Arturo Toscanini resigned in 1936, and as a result, had to suffer devastating reviews and comparisons with the legendary Toscanini. Barbirolli, however, more than proved his worth later,when he became world-famous for conducting the great Halle Orchestra for many years.
- He was awarded Knight Bachelor of the Order of the British Empire in the 1949 King's Honours List for his services to music.
- His wife Evelyn Rothwell was a famous oboist.
- He was awarded the C.H. (Companion of Honor) in the 1969 Queen's Honours List for his services to music.
- Barbirolli shared a connection with composer Edward Elgar; he played with the London Symphony Orchestra when they premiered Elgar's Cello Concerto in 1919. In 1920, while still with the London Symphony Orchestra, Barbirolli participated in the Three Choirs Festival, and performed under Elgar, who was conducting the orchestra. In 1927, Barbirolli became a temporary conductor for the London Symphony Orchestra, and performed Elgar's Second Symphony; the composer was impressed and gave his gratitude to Barbirolli. The two also served as guest conductors for the Hallé Orchestra in 1932.
- Barbirolli's father was Italian, and his mother was French.
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