Edward Elgar's "The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38" is a profound and stirring orchestral work that delves into the depths of the human experience, exploring themes of death, judgment, and the afterlife. Composed in 1900, this two-part masterpiece sets to music the poetic text by Cardinal John Henry Newman, guiding listeners through the journey of a pious man's soul from his deathbed to his judgment before God and ultimately to Purgatory. Recorded in August 2023 at the Fairfield Halls in Croydon, United Kingdom, this album captures the essence of Elgar's genius, produced by Nicholas Parker and engineered by Neil Hutchinson.
The album features a stellar cast of performers, including Tom Raskin as the tenor, Louise Crane as the mezzo-soprano, and David Wynne conducting the orchestra. The work is divided into two parts, each containing a series of powerful and evocative movements that bring Newman's text to life. From the haunting "Prelude" to the serene "Softly and Gently, Dearly-Ransomed Soul," every track is a testament to Elgar's mastery of orchestration and his deep understanding of the human condition.
"The Dream of Gerontius" is not just a musical composition; it is a profound meditation on life, death, and the soul's journey. Elgar's score is rich with intricate harmonies and lush orchestration, creating a sonic landscape that is both beautiful and unsettling. The choir and soloists deliver performances of remarkable depth and sensitivity, bringing out the full range of human emotion contained within Newman's text.
This recording marks the 125th anniversary of the work's first performance and is the first time it has been heard locally in almost 30 years. The album is a fitting tribute to Elgar's enduring legacy and a testament to the enduring power of his music. Whether you are a longtime fan of Elgar's work or a newcomer to his music, "The Dream of Gerontius" is an album that will leave a lasting impression.
2025 Ondine Oy, Helsinki2025 Ondine Oy, Helsinki
Tracks
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 1: No. 1, PreludeEdward Elgar, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 1: No. 2, Jesu, Maria - I Am Near to DeathEdward Elgar, John Findon, Helsinki Music Centre Choir, Cambridge University Symphony Chorus, Dominante Choir, Helsinki Chamber Choir, Alumni of the Choir of Clare College Cambridge, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 1: No. 3, Rouse Thee, My Fainting SoulEdward Elgar, John Findon, Helsinki Music Centre Choir, Cambridge University Symphony Chorus, Dominante Choir, Helsinki Chamber Choir, Alumni of the Choir of Clare College Cambridge, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 1: No. 4a, Sanctus fortis, sanctus DeusEdward Elgar, John Findon, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 1: No. 4b, Rescue Him, O LordEdward Elgar, Helsinki Music Centre Choir, Cambridge University Symphony Chorus, Dominante Choir, Helsinki Chamber Choir, Alumni of the Choir of Clare College Cambridge, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 1: No. 5, Proficiscere, anima ChristianaEdward Elgar, Roderick Williams, Helsinki Music Centre Choir, Cambridge University Symphony Chorus, Dominante Choir, Helsinki Chamber Choir, Alumni of the Choir of Clare College Cambridge, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 6a, I Went to SleepEdward Elgar, John Findon, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 6b, My Work Is Done - No. 7, It Is a Member of That FamilyEdward Elgar, Christine Rice, John Findon, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 8, But Hark! Upon My Sense Comes a Fierce HubbubEdward Elgar, John Findon, Christine Rice, Helsinki Music Centre Choir, Cambridge University Symphony Chorus, Dominante Choir, Helsinki Chamber Choir, Alumni of the Choir of Clare College Cambridge, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 9a, I See Not Those False SpiritsEdward Elgar, John Findon, Christine Rice, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 9b, Praise to the Holiest - No. 10, But Hark! A Grand Mysterious HarmonyEdward Elgar, Christine Rice, John Findon, Helsinki Music Centre Choir, Cambridge University Symphony Chorus, Dominante Choir, Helsinki Chamber Choir, Alumni of the Choir of Clare College Cambridge, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 11a, Thy Judgment Now Is NearEdward Elgar, Christine Rice, John Findon, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 11b, Jesu! By That Shuddering DreadEdward Elgar, Roderick Williams, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 12, I Go Before My JudgeEdward Elgar, John Findon, Christine Rice, Helsinki Music Centre Choir, Cambridge University Symphony Chorus, Dominante Choir, Helsinki Chamber Choir, Alumni of the Choir of Clare College Cambridge, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
The Dream of Gerontius, Op. 38, Pt. 2: No. 12, Lord, Thou Hast Been Our Refuge - No. 13, Softly and Gently, Dearly-Ransomed SoulEdward Elgar, Christine Rice, Helsinki Music Centre Choir, Cambridge University Symphony Chorus, Dominante Choir, Helsinki Chamber Choir, Alumni of the Choir of Clare College Cambridge, Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra, Nicholas Collon
Sir Edward William Elgar, 1st Baronet, stands as one of the most celebrated English composers, renowned for his contributions to the classical music repertoire. Born in the picturesque countryside of Lower Broadheath near Worcester in 1857, Elgar's life and works are deeply rooted in the romantic traditions of the late 19th century. His compositions, which include the iconic Enigma Variations, the triumphant Pomp and Circumstance Marches, and the deeply moving The Dream of Gerontius, have earned him a place among the greats of British music. Elgar's ability to blend emotional depth with technical brilliance has made his works staples in concert halls around the world. Beyond his orchestral masterpieces, Elgar also composed choral works, chamber music, and songs, showcasing his versatility and mastery of various musical forms. Appointed Master of the King's Musick in 1924, Elgar's legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences, solidifying his status as a pivotal figure in the history of classical music.
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Edward Elgar
