Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Edward Elgar's choral works with this captivating album, released on January 15, 2021, by BR-Klassik. Spanning a little over an hour, this collection showcases Elgar's mastery in composing for choir and piano, offering a rich tapestry of classical music that is both profound and accessible.
The album opens with "From the Bavarian Highlands, Op. 27," a six-part cycle that paints vivid musical landscapes inspired by the scenic beauty and folklore of the Bavarian region. Each piece, from the lively "The Dance" to the serene "Lullaby," reveals Elgar's ability to evoke vivid imagery and emotion through his music.
Following this, the album presents a selection of partsongs from two different collections. The first, "2 Partsongs, Op. 26," includes the delicate "The Snow" and the spirited "Fly, Singing Bird." The second, "5 Partsongs from the Greek Anthology, Op. 45," draws inspiration from ancient Greek poetry, with each song offering a unique blend of lyrical beauty and dramatic intensity.
The album also features several standalone pieces, each showcasing Elgar's versatility. "Go, Song of Mine, Op. 57" is a poignant farewell, while "Scenes from the Saga of King Olaf, Op. 30" offers a dramatic retelling of a Norse legend. The album concludes with the soothing "The Prince of Sleep," a lullaby that encapsulates Elgar's ability to create music that is both deeply moving and universally appealing.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Elgar or a newcomer to his music, this album offers a delightful exploration of his choral works. With its diverse selection of pieces and high-quality performances, it's a testament to Elgar's enduring legacy in the world of classical music.
2021 BR-Klassik2021 BR-Klassik
Tracks
From the Bavarian Highlands, Op. 27 (Version for Choir & Piano): No. 1, The DanceEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
From the Bavarian Highlands, Op. 27 (Version for Choir & Piano): No. 2, False LoveEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
From the Bavarian Highlands, Op. 27 (Version for Choir & Piano): No. 3, LullabyEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
From the Bavarian Highlands, Op. 27 (Version for Choir & Piano): No. 4, AspirationEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
From the Bavarian Highlands, Op. 27 (Version for Choir & Piano): No. 5, On the AlmEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
From the Bavarian Highlands, Op. 27 (Version for Choir & Piano): No. 6, The MarksmenEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
2 Partsongs, Op. 26: No. 1, The SnowEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Radoslaw Szulc, Julita Smoleń, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
2 Partsongs, Op. 26: No. 2, Fly, Singing BirdEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Radoslaw Szulc, Julita Smoleń, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
5 Partsongs from the Greek Anthology, Op. 45: No. 1, Yea, Cast Me from Heights of the MountainsEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
5 Partsongs from the Greek Anthology, Op. 45: No. 2, Whether I Find TheeEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
5 Partsongs from the Greek Anthology, Op. 45: No. 3, After Many a Dusty MileEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
5 Partsongs from the Greek Anthology, Op. 45: No. 4, It's Oh! To Be a Wild WindEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
5 Partsongs from the Greek Anthology, Op. 45: No. 5, Feasting I WatchEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
Go, Song of Mine, Op. 57Edward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
Scenes from the Saga of King Olaf, Op. 30: As Torrents in Summer (Version for Female Choir & Piano)Edward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
Spanish Serenade, Op. 23 "Stars of the Summer Night" (Arr. for Choir, 2 Violins & Piano)Edward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Radoslaw Szulc, Julita Smoleń, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
The Reveille, Op. 54Edward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
They Are at RestEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
Weary Wind of the WestEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Max Hanft, Howard Arman
The Prince of SleepEdward Elgar, Bavarian Radio Chorus, Howard Arman
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