Dive into the enchanting world of Edward Elgar's "Elgar: The Wand of Youth Suites/Salut D'amour/Nursery Suite," a captivating collection of orchestral works that showcase the composer's versatility and charm. Released on November 2, 2018, under the Halle Concerts Society label, this album is a delightful journey through Elgar's early compositions, offering a blend of whimsy, romance, and sophistication.
The album opens with "The Wand of Youth" suites, a set of playful and imaginative pieces that Elgar composed for his own amusement and later orchestrated. These suites are a delightful exploration of childhood memories and fantasies, featuring lively dances, serene serenades, and whimsical character pieces. The Hallé Orchestra, under the skilled direction of Sir Mark Elder, brings these youthful compositions to life with precision and exuberance.
Following the "Wand of Youth" suites, the album presents "Salut d’amour," a charming and romantic piece that Elgar composed as a love letter to his future wife, Caroline Alice Roberts. This well-known work is a beautiful example of Victorian salon music, showcasing Elgar's ability to create deeply expressive and melodically rich compositions.
The album concludes with the "Nursery Suite," a collection of eight short pieces that Elgar composed for his own children. These enchanting miniatures evoke the innocence and wonder of childhood, with titles such as "Aubade (Awake)," "The Serious Doll," and "Dreaming." The suite culminates in the lively "Envoy (Coda)," a playful and energetic conclusion to this delightful collection.
With a total runtime of 1 hour and 11 minutes, "Elgar: The Wand of Youth Suites/Salut D'amour/Nursery Suite" is a captivating exploration of Edward Elgar's early compositions. The Hallé Orchestra's impeccable performance, led by Sir Mark Elder, brings these enchanting works to life, offering listeners a chance to discover the charm and sophistication of Elgar's music. Whether you're a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to delight and enchant.
(C) 2018 Hallé Concerts Society
Tracks
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No.1, Op.1a: I. Overture (Allegro molto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No.1, Op.1a: II. Serenade (Andantino)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No.1, Op.1a: III. Minuet (Old Style) (Andante)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No.1, Op.1a: IV. Sun Dance (Presto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No.1, Op.1a: V. Fairy Pipers (Allegretto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No.1, Op.1a: VI. Slumber Scene (Moderato)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No.1, Op.1a: VII. Fairies and Giants (Presto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No. 2, Op.1b: I. March. Alla Marcia (Allegro moderato)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No. 2, Op.1b: II. The Little Bells (Scherzino) (Allegro molto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No. 2, Op.1b: III. Moths and Butterflies (Dance) (Allegretto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No. 2, Op.1b: IV. Fountain Dance (Allegretto comodo)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No. 2, Op.1b: V. The Tame Bear (Allegro moderato)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
The Wand of Youth (Music to a Child's Play), Suite No. 2, Op.1b: VI. The Wild Bears (Presto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Salut d’amour (Liebesgruss), Op.12Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Nursery Suite: I. Aubade (Awake) (Lento – Allegretto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Nursery Suite: II. The Serious Doll (Andantino)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Nursery Suite: III. Busy-ness! (Allegro molto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Nursery Suite: IV. The Sad Doll (Andantino)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Nursery Suite: V. The Wagon (Passes) (Allegretto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Nursery Suite: VI. The Merry Doll (Allegro molto)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Nursery Suite: VII. Dreaming (Lento) –Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Nursery Suite: VIII. Envoy (Coda)Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
Chanson de nuit, Op.15 No.1Edward Elgar, Hallé, Sir Mark Elder
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