Immerse yourself in the profound and evocative world of Edward Elgar with his masterful compositions presented in "Elgar: The Dream of Gerontius & Cello Concerto." This album, released on November 11, 2011, under the ABC Classic label, is a testament to Elgar's genius in the classical genre, showcasing his ability to blend orchestral brilliance with deeply moving narratives.
The album features two of Elgar's most celebrated works: the Cello Concerto in E Minor, Op. 85, and the choral masterpiece "The Dream of Gerontius," Op. 38. The Cello Concerto, with its four distinct movements, offers a rich tapestry of emotions, from the somber and reflective Adagio to the lively and energetic Allegro. Each movement is a journey in itself, highlighting the cello's expressive range and the orchestra's dynamic support.
"The Dream of Gerontius," a dramatic oratorio, is a spiritual journey that explores themes of life, death, and the afterlife. Through its intricate choral arrangements and powerful orchestration, Elgar brings to life the poetic text by John Henry Newman. The work is divided into two parts, each filled with moments of intense drama, tender reflection, and sublime beauty. The choral sections are particularly noteworthy, showcasing the human voice in all its glory, from the solemn and reverent to the triumphant and ecstatic.
With a total duration of over two hours, this album is a substantial and rewarding listening experience. Edward Elgar's compositions are performed with precision and passion, capturing the essence of his musical vision. Whether you are a longtime fan of classical music or a newcomer looking to explore the genre, this album offers a rich and fulfilling journey through the works of one of the most influential composers of the late Romantic era.
(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
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