Immerse yourself in the profound and patriotic compositions of Edward Elgar with "Elgar: The Binyon Settings," a compelling collection that pays tribute to the spirit of England and the courage of those who served during World War I. This album, released on November 18, 2014, under SOMM Recordings, features a rich tapestry of orchestral and choral works that showcase Elgar's mastery of classical music.
The centerpiece of the album is "The Spirit of England, Op. 80," a cantata that sets three poems by Laurence Binyon to music. This work includes the iconic lines "They shall not grow old," a poignant tribute to the fallen soldiers of the war. The album also includes the premiere recording of Elgar's complete incidental music for Binyon's verse play "Arthur," providing a rare and comprehensive look into Elgar's later works.
Judith Howarth's soprano vocals soar alongside the London Symphony Chorus and the Philharmonia Orchestra, conducted by John Wilson, in performances that are both powerful and nuanced. Simon Callow's recitation of "Carillon" adds a dramatic depth to the collection, making this album a standout in Elgar's discography.
"Elgar: The Binyon Settings" is not just a collection of songs but a historical and cultural artifact that commemorates the bravery and patriotism of a generation. Whether you're a longtime fan of Edward Elgar or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a deep and moving experience that highlights the enduring power of his compositions. The album's duration of 1 hour and 18 minutes ensures a rich and immersive listening experience.
2014 SOMM Recordings2014 SOMM Recordings
Tracks
The Spirit of England, Op. 80: No. 1, The Fourth of AugustEdward Elgar, Judith Howarth, London Symphony Chorus, Philharmonia Orchestra, John Wilson
The Spirit of England, Op. 80: No. 2, To WomenEdward Elgar, Judith Howarth, London Symphony Chorus, Philharmonia Orchestra, John Wilson
The Spirit of England, Op. 80: No. 3, For the FallenEdward Elgar, Judith Howarth, London Symphony Chorus, Philharmonia Orchestra, John Wilson
With Proud ThanksgivingEdward Elgar, London Symphony Chorus, Philharmonia Orchestra, John Wilson
Carillon, Op. 75Edward Elgar, Simon Callow, BBC Concert Orchestra, John Wilson
Arthur, Introduction to Scene 1Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 1: Now You Have Told MeEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: End of Scene 1Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: Introduction to Scene 2Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: Introduction to Scene 3Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 3: Put Me on the BargeEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: Link to Scene 4Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: Introduction to Scene 4Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: Curtain RisesEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: And Both DangerousEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: It May BeEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: The QueenEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: King Arthur's FellowshipEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: As the King WillsEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: The Radiant RoseEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: Our Queen!Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: Ah FalseEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 4: Reading LetterEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: Introduction to Scene 5Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 5: No Tree Was ThereEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: Introduction to Scene 7Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 7: Go Lucan, to Meet HerEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur, Scene 7: Thy SwordEdward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: End of Scene 7Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
Arthur: Introduction to Scene 8Edward Elgar, Orchestra of St. Paul's, Ben Palmer
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