Dive into the rich, transatlantic musical heritage with "Elgar from America," a captivating collection of works by the esteemed British composer Edward Elgar. Released in 2019 by SOMM Recordings, this album offers a unique perspective on Elgar's masterpieces, featuring historic recordings that bridge the gap between British and American musical traditions.
The album spans a generous 78 minutes, showcasing three of Elgar's most celebrated works: the enchanting "Variations on an Original Theme 'Enigma'," the profound "Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85," and the dramatic "Falstaff, Symphonic Study in C Minor, Op. 68." Each piece is a testament to Elgar's genius, blending orchestral brilliance with deep emotional resonance.
"Variations on an Original Theme 'Enigma'" is a series of musical portraits, each variation dedicated to a different friend of Elgar. The "Cello Concerto in E Minor" is a soulful and introspective piece, often considered one of the finest cello concertos in the classical repertoire. "Falstaff, Symphonic Study" is a vivid orchestral work inspired by Shakespeare's beloved character, filled with humor, drama, and rich character studies.
This album is a treasure trove for both longtime admirers of Elgar and those new to his music. The historic recordings, featuring legendary performers, provide a fascinating glimpse into how Elgar's works were interpreted and celebrated in America. Whether you're a classical music enthusiast or simply looking to explore the depths of orchestral music, "Elgar from America" is a compelling journey through the timeless compositions of one of Britain's greatest composers.
2019 SOMM Recordings2019 SOMM Recordings
Tracks
Variations on an Original Theme "Enigma", Op. 36: ThemeEdward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation I (C.A.E.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation II (H.D.S-P.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation III (R.B.T.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation IV (W.M.B.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation V (R.P.A.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation VI (Ysobel)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation VII (Troyte)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation VIII (W.N.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation IX (Nimrod)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation X Intermezzo (Dorabella)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation XI (G.R.S.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation XII (B.G.N.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation XIII Romanza ()Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Variation XIV Finale (e.D.U.)Edward Elgar, NBC Symphony Orchestra, Arturo Toscanini
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: I: Adagio - ModeratoEdward Elgar, Gregor Piatigorsky, New York Philharmonic, Sir John Barbirolli
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: II: Lento - Allegro moltoEdward Elgar, Gregor Piatigorsky, New York Philharmonic, Sir John Barbirolli
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: III: AdagioEdward Elgar, Gregor Piatigorsky, New York Philharmonic, Sir John Barbirolli
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: IV: Allegro – Moderato – Allegro, ma non-troppo – Poco più lento – AdagioEdward Elgar, Gregor Piatigorsky, New York Philharmonic, Sir John Barbirolli
Falstaff, Symphonic Study in C Minor, Op. 68: I Falstaff and Prince HenryEdward Elgar, New York Philharmonic, Artur Rodjinsky
Falstaff, Symphonic Study in C Minor, Op. 68: II Eastcheap - Gadshll - The Boar's Head, revelry and sleepEdward Elgar, New York Philharmonic, Artur Rodjinsky
Falstaff, Symphonic Study in C Minor, Op. 68: Dream InterludeEdward Elgar, New York Philharmonic, Artur Rodjinsky
Falstaff, Symphonic Study in C Minor, Op. 68: III Falstaff's march - The return through GloucestershireEdward Elgar, New York Philharmonic, Artur Rodjinsky
Falstaff, Symphonic Study in C Minor, Op. 68: Interlude. Gloucestershire. Shallow's orchardEdward Elgar, New York Philharmonic, Artur Rodjinsky
Falstaff, Symphonic Study in C Minor, Op. 68: IV King Henry's progress - The repudiation of Flastaff, and his deathEdward Elgar, New York Philharmonic, Artur Rodjinsky