Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative compositions of Edward Elgar with this captivating album, "Elgar: The Dream of Gerontius & Cello Concerto." Released on November 11, 2011, under the ABC Classic label, this collection showcases two of Elgar's most celebrated works, offering a rich and immersive experience for classical music enthusiasts.
The album begins with Elgar's Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85, a masterpiece that highlights the expressive depth and technical brilliance of the cello. This concerto, composed in the aftermath of World War I, is a testament to Elgar's ability to convey deep emotion and complexity through his music. The four movements of the concerto—Adagio - Moderato, Lento - Allegro molto, Adagio, and Allegro - Moderato - Allegro, ma non troppo—take the listener on a journey through a range of moods and textures, from introspective and somber to lively and exuberant.
The second half of the album is dedicated to "The Dream of Gerontius," Op. 38, a monumental choral work that draws from John Henry Newman's poem of the same name. This oratorio explores themes of life, death, and the afterlife, featuring a diverse array of vocal and orchestral elements. The work is divided into two parts, each containing multiple sections that weave together to create a profound and moving narrative. From the hauntingly beautiful "Jesu, Maria - I am near to death" to the triumphant "Praise to the Holiest in the height," this piece showcases Elgar's mastery of choral writing and his ability to evoke deep spiritual and emotional resonance.
The album's duration of two hours and two minutes allows for a comprehensive exploration of these works, providing a deep dive into Elgar's musical genius. The performances are praised for their exceptional quality, with particular acclaim for the sublime interpretations and impeccable orchestral playing. Whether you are a longtime fan of Elgar's music or a newcomer to his compositions, this album offers a compelling and enriching listening experience that highlights the enduring power and beauty of his work.
(C) 2011 Australian Broadcasting Corporation / Universal Music Australia Pty Limited(P) 2011 Australian Broadcasting Corporation / Universal Music Australia Pty Limited
Tracks
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: I. Adagio - ModeratoEdward Elgar, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: II. Lento - Allegro moltoEdward Elgar, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: III. AdagioEdward Elgar, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85: IV. Allegro - Moderato - Allegro, ma non troppoEdward Elgar, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. I: PreludeEdward Elgar, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. I: Jesu, Maria - I am near to deathEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. I: So pray for me - Kyrie eleison - Holy Mary, pray for himEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. I: Rouse thee, my fainting soulEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. I: Sanctus fortis, Sanctus DeusEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. I: I can no moreEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. I: Proficiscere, anima Christiana, de hoc mundo!Edward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: IntroductionEdward Elgar, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: I went to sleepEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: Another marvel - My work is doneEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: It is a member of that family of wondrous beingsEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: But Hark! - Low-born clods of brute earthEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: Dispossessed, aside thrustEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: I see not those false spiritsEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: There was a mortal - Praise to the Holiest in the heightEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: But hark! A grand, mysterious harmonyEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: Praise to the Holiest in the heightEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: Thy judgment now is nearEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: Jesu! By that shuddering dread which fell on TheeEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: Praise to His Name! - Take me awayEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38 - Pt. II: Softly and gentlyEdward Elgar, John Henry Newman, Vladimir Ashkenazy, Sydney Symphony Orchestra
Vinylscout